In the know

Outbreak of Influenza Virus

What is influenza A virus?

It is a virus that causes flu season and spreads faster among the population

Most people infected by the virus get better with time but in other cases it’s deadly

How it spreads

The virus just like covid 19 spreads when one inhales droplets from an infected person who may have coughed or sneezed

The virus can also be picked from objects like doors, computer keyboards and telephones

Symptoms of the virus

The virus first starts as common cold with a runny nose, sore throat and sneezing. However flu suddenly develops as it progresses and one feels worse

Common signs

Fever ,aching muscles, chills and  sweats ,headache, dry persistent cough ,shortness of breath, Tiredness and weakness, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat ,eye pain, vomiting and diarrhea

Who are at risk?

Children under the age of five

Adults aged 65 and above

Health care workers

Pregnant and those who recently delivered

People whose immune systems are weak

People with pre-existing conditions or diseases such as asthma, heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease and diabetes

The virus can lead to complications such as pneumonia, bronchitis, asthma flare-ups, heart problems, ear infections and acute respiratory distress syndrome

You will need to see a doctor if you experience symptoms such as difficulty in breathing, dizziness, seizures, worsening of existing medical conditions or severe weakness or muscle pain in adults