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Common Questions About the Flu
The flu is spread primarily through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people nearby or be inhaled into the lungs. It’s also possible to contract the flu by touching a surface or object contaminated with the virus and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes.
The duration of the flu can vary, but most people recover within one to two weeks. However, some individuals – especially young children, elderly people, and those with compromised immune systems or chronic medical conditions – may be at a higher risk of developing complications, which can prolong the recovery period and even be life-threatening.
The best way to prevent the flu is to get an annual flu vaccine. Other preventive measures include practicing good hygiene by washing your hands frequently, avoiding close contact with those who are sick, and disinfecting surfaces in your home that are frequently touched.
Although both the flu and the common cold are respiratory illnesses, they are caused by different viruses. Flu symptoms are typically more severe and come on more suddenly than cold symptoms. The flu often includes fever, body aches, and extreme fatigue, while a cold usually presents with a runny or stuffy nose and a milder cough.
Flu season can vary in length and severity from year to year. In general, flu season in the Northern Hemisphere occurs between fall and winter, with peak activity typically occurring between December and February. However, the exact timing and duration of flu season can vary depending on a number of factors – such as the predominant strain of the virus and vaccination rates.
Flu season may be relatively mild or short-lived in some years, while in other years it can be more severe and prolonged. It's important to get vaccinated each year and take other preventative measures to reduce your risk of getting the flu, regardless of the length of the season.
Yes, it's possible to get the flu outside of flu season. Flu viruses can circulate year-round, and flu season can occur at different times in different parts of the world. Getting vaccinated and practicing good hygiene is important for protecting yourself from the flu at any time of the year.
Although most healthy individuals recover from the flu without complications, it’s possible for the flu to lead to serious and life-threatening complications, particularly for those with weakened immune systems, the elderly, and young children.
It's important to take preventative measures such as getting vaccinated and practicing good hygiene to reduce the risk of getting the flu and experiencing complications. If you do develop symptoms of the flu, be sure to seek medical attention if you have severe symptoms or if your symptoms worsen or persist for an extended period of time.