Influenza Virus – Class 10

Influenza 

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a contagious illness caused by influenza viruses. It mainly affects the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs, causing various symptoms. Getting an annual flu vaccination is the most effective way to protect against the virus. There are three main types of influenza viruses: A, B, and C. These viruses attack the epithelial cells in the respiratory tract’s mucous lining.

Modes of Transmission:

– Through the air.

– Person-to-person contact.

– Droplets from sneezing, coughing, or talking.

Symptoms:

– Sudden onset of chills.

– Runny nose, sneezing, and coughing.

– Fever, headache, and muscle pains.

– Inflammation of the respiratory mucosa and general weakness.

Control:

There is no complete way to stop influenza, but vaccines help control it. Antiviral drugs, like Amantadine and Rimantadine, are often recommended for treatment. Bed rest helps speed up recovery.

Prevention:

– Avoid close contact with people who have the flu.

– The flu virus changes quickly, which makes it hard to create long-lasting vaccines. A vaccine developed one year may become less effective the next year due to mutations in the virus.