Influenza

What is it? A range of viral infections causing symptoms such as acute respiratory infection, fever with rapid onset, sore throat, cough and chills, often accompanied by headache, coryza, muscle pains and prostration. How is it transmitted? Airborne transmission via droplets from unprotected coughs and sneezes and via contamination of the hands. Where is it present? Worldwide. Level of risk? Variable depending on season. The young and elderly are more susceptible. What can I do to prevent getting it? Vaccination. Keep hands clean. Treatment? Supportive and symptomatic; no cure available.