The Flu or influenza is an infection from birds and mammals caused by the RNA virus family - Orthomyxovirdae. The flu is often confused with the common cold because symptoms are somewhat similar, but the flu is more severe because it is caused by different types of the virus (Wikipedia, 2014).

 
       The flu is not discriminatory, it can affect everyone. According to the CDC to date New York State is at a moderate high level for outpatient visits to their primary care physicians for flu like symptoms. Hospitalizations are also high especially with those 65 years old and older being hospitalized (CDC, 2014).
If left untreated the flu can lead to life threatening complications including; pneumonia, encephalitis, meningitis, and can even produce seizures. Diagnosing the flu is usually based on symptoms but sometimes the physicians may want you to have a swab of your nose or throat for a more definitive diagnosis to decide the best course of treatment for you.

According to the CDC, the flu can be prevented in 3 easy steps:

1. Get your flu shot - The CDC recommends anyone 6 months of age and older get vaccinated.Those that are at high risk; elderly, young children, pregnant women, and those with respiratory conditions such as asthma and also healthcare workers and those that live with or take care of those in the high risk group should be vaccinated.
2. Stop the spread of germs - Wash your hands!!! Clean and disinfect surfaces. Cover your mouth & nose when coughing or sneezing. If you are sick, use common sense and stay home from work or school for at least 4 hours after your fever has subsided.
3. If you have the flu - Take the treatment that you physician may have prescribed for you. This may include antiviral drugs such as Tami flu. These drugs can decrease symptoms and shorten the time you feel ill when taken properly.

     So you see bloggers, keep it safe and be informed. See you next time!!!
   

References

Center for Disease Control (2014). Flu season. Retrieved from: http://www.cdc.gov/flu/.

New York Times (2014). The flu overview. Retrieved from: http://www.nytimes.com/health/guides/disease/the-flu/overview.html  

Wikipedia (2014). Influenza. Retrieved from: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Influenza