The flu begins rapidly with fever. At the same time flushed face, body aches and lack of energy may occur (some people may have dizziness and vomiting). Fever lasts from 2 to 5 days. Mainly flu appears at the winter time and it caused by influenza virus (type A and type B). People may get the influenza virus via air or any physical contact with other people. Most prominent of the respiratory symptoms is a dry, hacking cough.

Sore throat and headaches, nasal discharge and sneezing are common for the flu and in average it takes a week to treat the flu symptoms. It is a fact that 10-15% of population becomes infected in the winter time, in severe cases it comes to 20%. The most common way to catch the flu is by inhaling droplets from sneezing or from cough; and less often when you touch the surface such as phone handle that has the virus on it.

What’s the difference between the flu and a common cold?

Both the flu and a cold are viral infections that cause symptoms such as coughing and a sore throat. A cold is a minor viral infection of the nose and throat. The flu is usually more severe, with the sudden onset of high fever and the addition of aches and pains. The flu usually starts suddenly and may include these symptoms: Fever (usually high), Headache, Tiredness (can be extreme), Cough, Sore throat, Runny or stuffy nose, Body aches, Diarrhea and vomiting also can occur but are more common in children.

Is the flu dangerous?

A bad case of the flu will probably send a healthy adult or child to bed for 3 to 5 days. However, once the virus resides, the person will make a full recovery, although coughs and fatigue can often remain for a short period. Nonetheless, the flu can be a serious illness. People over the age of 50 and those of all ages with chronic illnesses (such as diabetes, heart disease, asthma and HIV) are more likely to become seriously ill with the flu. These people are also more likely to go on to develop other serious infections such as pneumonia. If you are elderly or are suffering from a chronic disease, you should visit your doctor as soon as the initial signs of flu are observed. In very rare cases, those with existing additional health complications, the flu can prove fatal.
Can the flu be cured with antibiotics?

No, because the flu is a viral infection, it cannot be treated with antibiotics. Antibiotics are medicines that kill bacteria and are therefore only useful for treating bacterial infections. If your doctor does not think that you need antibiotics to treat your infection, do not insist. Inappropriate use of antibiotics contributes to the development of antibiotic-resistant strains of bacteria, which is gradually becoming a medical concern.