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Seasonal influenza (commonly known as the “Flu”) is an acute respiratory infection caused by influenza viruses that spreads easily from person to person. 

Seasonal influenza viruses circulate worldwide and can affect people in any age group. 

In temperate climates, seasonal epidemics occur mainly during winter while in tropical regions, influenza seasonality is less obvious, and epidemics can occur throughout the year. 

The time from infection to illness, known as the incubation period, is about 2 days, but ranges from one to four days. 

Seasonal influenza is characterized by a sudden onset of fever, cough (usually dry), headache, muscle and joint pain, severe malaise (feeling unwell), sore throat and a runny nose. The cough can be severe and can last 2 or more weeks. Most people recover from fever and other symptoms within a week without requiring medical attention. But influenza can cause severe illness or death especially in people at high risk (see below). 

Seasonal influenza is a serious public health problem that causes severe illness and death in high risk populations. 

Influenza vaccination is the most effective way to prevent disease. 

Patients that are not from a high-risk group should be managed with symptomatic treatment and are advised, if symptomatic, to stay home in order to minimize the risk of infecting others in the community. Treatment focuses on relieving symptoms of influenza such as fever. Patients should monitor themselves to detect if their condition deteriorates and seek medical attention. Patients that are known to be in a group at high risk for developing severe or complicated illness, should be treated with antivirals in addition to symptomatic treatment as soon as possible.  

Apart from vaccination and antiviral treatment, the public health management includes personal protective measures l¾±°ì±ð: 

Regular hand washing with proper drying of the hands 

Good respiratory hygiene – covering mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, using tissues and disposing of them correctly 

Early self-isolation of those feeling unwell, feverish and having other symptoms of influenza 

Avoiding close contact with sick people 

Avoiding touching one’s eyes, nose or mouth