Information about the seasonal flu

The flu is a contagious illness. It is transmitted through the air (spray of secretions from coughs, sneezes, or droplets), directly through close contact with an infected person, or through contact with contaminated hands or objects (door handles, cutlery, etc.). After infection with the flu virus, the illness typically develops within 48 hours. Infected individuals remain contagious for up to five days after the onset of symptoms (up to seven days in children).

The flu usually appears suddenly with a high fever, body aches, headache, intense fatigue, general malaise, and respiratory symptoms such as a dry cough and runny nose. The illness generally lasts about a week, but fatigue can persist for three to four weeks. A dry cough can also last for about two weeks.

The flu is often considered a mild illness, which is generally the case for young and healthy individuals. However, it can lead to serious complications, even death, particularly in vulnerable individuals such as the elderly, people with chronic illnesses, pregnant women, people with obesity, and infants. In Luxembourg, these groups are specifically targeted by the annual flu vaccination campaigns.

Complications can then arise, including:

• those directly related to the virus itself: viral pneumonia, myocarditis, etc.;
• those related to a bacterial superinfection, such as a severe lung infection (pneumonia);
• the worsening of a pre-existing chronic condition (diabetes, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, heart failure, chronic kidney disease, cystic fibrosis, etc.).

Treatment for the flu involves rest, rehydration, and medication to reduce fever and pain (antipyretics). In certain situations, a specific antiviral medication for the flu may be prescribed by the attending physician. In this case, treatment is effective if it begins within two days of the onset of symptoms.

The vast majority of severe cases admitted to intensive care have a risk factor. Vaccination therefore remains the preferred individual prevention method for people at risk.

Adhering to barrier gestures is also essential to protect oneself and others.

In general, it is important to remember basic hygiene rules. Indeed, the flu virus is mainly transmitted through the air, but also via contaminated hands and objects.