We can see that in some seasons of the year; especially in times of low temperatures; the number of people catching colds increases. However, its annoying symptoms are often confused with various diseases that attack the respiratory tract. Hence, the seasonal flu, today, enjoys a high popularity in the world, in the same way as the contagious Covid-19.
In fact, seasonal flu can turn into an acute viral infection. So much so, that it has been pointed out as responsible for many deaths over a long period of time. For this, it has taken different names; Spanish flu, Asian flu, and Hong Kong flu; with mutations in recent decades such as the Russian flu in 1977 and the Mexican flu in 2009.
Seasonal flu is a public health threat
This is how the WHO World Health Organization has cataloged it, in its constant search to find strategies to prevent infections, prevent it from spreading through animals to people and be prepared to face a new possible pandemic. Above all, because despite the provision of vaccines, government strategies and social awareness campaigns, every day the number of serious cases and deaths increases in the world.1
Therefore, it is important to know a little more about the flu, its variations and the measures that can be taken to reduce the risk in people of different ages. Above all, because type A; A (H1N1) -A (H3N2); combines two proteins; hemagglutinin and neuraminidase; becoming the most deadly for humans, but also for pigs. Since, types B and C go unnoticed due to their mild symptoms. As long as it is classified with the letter D, it affects cattle without consequences for the human race.1
In this way, episodes of dry cough, strong runny nose, sudden fever and general malaise. Where headaches, muscle aches and joint problems can be present, they can be naturally controlled in a few days. However, it is likely to become a serious or fatal illness if symptoms become severe and involve the lungs. 2
It does not discriminate against any age group
We can see that seasonal flu has no preference, indiscriminately affecting people of any age, social condition, race and gender. However, children under 5 years of age, the elderly, patients with comorbidities, pregnant women and professionals in the health sector are more vulnerable. 2
Especially since viruses are easily spread by coughing goths. Hence, sudden changes in temperature, closed spaces with crowds of people, the lack of hygiene protocols and a weakened immune system become the best breeding ground; in less than 2 days; this infection and replicate it to other people easily. 3
In this way, we note that seasonal flu in its various variables easily affects humans. Causing complications that can range from bronchitis, through myocarditis, to drastically affect the brain. Therefore, consulting with any symptoms, minimizing risk factors and following medical recommendations will be the best way to take care of our health and that of others.3
References:
- Official website of the World Health Organization. Flu (seasonal). WHO. [internet] 2018 consulted 6 sep. 2021. https://www.who.int/es/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/influenza-(seasonal).
2.Solórzano-Santos Fortino, Miranda-Novales Ma. Guadalupe. Influenza. Bol. Med. Hosp. Infant. Mex. [revista en la Internet]. 2009 Oct [citado 2021 Sep. 06]; 66 (5): 461-473. Available in:
http://www.scielo.org.mx/scielo.php?script=sci_arttext&pid=S1665-11462009000500010&lng=es.
3.Stylite Esteva Espinosa. Flu. Elsevier. [internet] 2007 [ consultado 6 sep. 2021]; 26 (9): 52-59. Available in: https://www.elsevier.es/es-revista-offarm-4-articulo-gripe-13111060.