What is influenza?
Feb 10, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Ren Yi
Introduction
In general, influenza refers to the flu, which is an acute respiratory infectious disease caused by the influenza virus. During the course of the illness, patients need to closely monitor body temperature changes and the development of other symptoms, seek timely medical attention, and receive diagnosis and treatment from professional doctors. Patients should maintain adequate sleep and rest, and enhance nutrient intake to improve their immune system.
Generally speaking, flu refers to influenza, which is an acute respiratory infectious disease caused by the influenza virus. A detailed analysis is as follows:
Influenza is mainly caused by four types of influenza viruses: A, B, C, and D. These viruses tend to mutate easily, leading to recurring outbreaks of influenza. Influenza is highly contagious and primarily spreads through airborne droplets, such as those produced by coughing and sneezing, but can also be transmitted by touching the mouth or nose after contact with virus-contaminated objects.
Symptoms of influenza typically include sudden high fever, chills, headache, cough, and body aches in the muscles and joints, as well as nausea and vomiting. Among specific populations such as children, the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic diseases or weakened immune systems, infection with influenza can more easily lead to severe complications like pneumonia and respiratory failure, which may be life-threatening.
The incubation period for influenza is usually 1–7 days. During the course of the illness, patients should closely monitor changes in body temperature and progression of other symptoms, seek timely medical attention, and receive diagnosis and treatment from a qualified physician. Patients should ensure adequate sleep and rest, and increase nutrient intake to enhance immune function, which helps prevent the occurrence of influenza.
