How is the influenza virus transmitted?

Influenza viruses are primarily transmitted through airborne droplets, direct contact between people, or contact with contaminated objects. Common clinical manifestations of influenza include chills and high fever, with body temperature reaching 39–40°C, often accompanied by headache, muscle and joint pain, extreme fatigue, loss of appetite, and other systemic symptoms. Patients frequently experience sore throat, dry cough, nasal congestion, runny nose, and retrosternal discomfort.

1. Droplet transmission

When the influenza virus infects the respiratory tract, it typically triggers symptoms such as coughing and runny nose. Coughing produces droplets containing pathogens, which release the virus into the air. These airborne droplets can then enter the respiratory system of uninfected individuals through air circulation, leading to infection.

2. Contact transmission

The secretions from patients infected with the influenza virus contain the virus, including saliva, nasal mucus, vaginal discharge, and pus from wounds. If one comes into contact with items contaminated by these secretions or directly touches a patient's secretions—especially when there are open wounds or breaks in the skin—or uses contaminated hands to touch oral mucosa or food, the virus may enter the body through broken skin or mucous membranes, resulting in influenza infection.

Patients suspected of influenza virus infection should seek timely medical care for symptomatic treatment. Uninfected individuals should take appropriate personal protective measures.