What is Influenza?

Influenza is not the stomach flu or the common cold that we all get. It is a serious viral infection that occurs in epidemics and contributes to the death of about 20,000 people each year in this country. The “1918 flu” and “swine flu” were influenza.

Shots are given each fall to immunize against the expected strains of the virus. The shots should be given by November to be ready for the epidemic season which occurs later in the winter.

Influenza acts like the common cold at first with coughing and respiratory symptoms, but the symptoms rapidly worsen. Influenza also differs from the common cold in many ways. Influenza usually causes a significant fever which lasts for up to four days, while colds have a minimal fever. A person with the flu has rather severe aches and pains in the muscles and joints as well as a severe headache.  Fatigue can be very prominent; many people can barely get out of bed.

The runny nose, sneezing and sore throat that are so common with a common cold are much less prominent with influenza. Instead of the sinus congestion and ear infections seen with colds, influenza is more likely to cause serious life-threatening pneumonias.

The people who are prone to get the more severe complications of pneumonia from influenza are those who are older or have a lower level of resistance. This includes people who have chronic illnesses such as heart or lung disease, diabetes, kidney disease and many other medical problems.

If you have a serious illness, consult your doctor to see if you should get the immunization.  While the vaccine is most important for people over 65, it is useful at any age, and the more who get vaccinated, the harder it is for the virus to spread through your community.

This series of articles has been provided by Carolina Pines Regional Medical Center as a public service. For questions about this topic or any other health related issue, call (843) 339-2100.