Overview
Influenza, commonly known as ("the") flu, is an infectious disease of birds and mammals caused by RNA viruses of the family Orthomyxoviridae (the influenza viruses). The name influenza comes from the Italian: influenza, meaning "influence", (Latin: influentia). In humans, common symptoms of the disease are chills and fever, sore throat, muscle pains, severe headache, coughing, weakness and general discomfort. In more serious cases, influenza causes pneumonia, which can be fatal, particularly in young children and the elderly. Although it is sometimes confused with the common cold, influenza is a much more severe disease and is caused by a different type of virus. Influenza can produce nausea and vomiting, especially in children, but these symptoms are more characteristic of the unrelated gastroenteritis, which is sometimes called the "stomach flu" or the "24-hour flu".
Prevention and Lifetstyle Tips
Some basic tips for avoiding and dealing with the flu include:
– Wash your hands frequently
– Minimize contact with people who have the flu
– Do not share cups, glasses, or utensils
– Disinfect workspace (desk, keyboard, and telephone)
– Get plenty of rest
– Stay hydrated
Nutritional Support for the Immune System
It is important to be aware of immune support during flu season:
– Eat a diet rich in whole grains and the rainbow of fruits and vegetables. Some immune supportive foods include citrus fruits, dark and leafy greens, parsley, cauliflower, tomatoes, and carrots. Also consider increasing your intake of probiotic-rich foods like yogurt, kefir, kombucha, miso, and sauerkraut (raw and fermented).
– Some supplements to consider include a daily multivitamin and antioxidants, echinacea, goldenseal, immune-enhancing mushrooms (maitake, shiitake, and reishi), and astragalus
Source: Christine Gonzalez, Integrative PharmD, CHC
