Influenza or flu is mostly thought of as a simple illness by some people but if one doesn’t seek medication or treatment early, doctors say that at times, it can lead to death.
Dr Michel Baingi, a general practitioner in Kigali notes that flu is a transmissible respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that contaminate the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs. It can cause mild to severe illness.
He says, people who have flu often feel some or all of these symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, fatigue (tiredness). Some people may experience vomiting and diarrhoea (though mostly in children than adults).
Most experts believe that flu viruses spread mainly by tiny droplets made when people with flu cough, sneeze or talk. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are close. But also, a person might get flu by touching a surface or object that has flu virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose or eyes.
Home remedies
Baingi explains that salty water is medicinal. Rinsing with salt water can help to calm the throat and clear the mucus build-up in the chest. The mixture of saltwater creates an osmosis result and pulls fluids from your throat. It breaks down the mucus, removes irritants, and clears the throat.
He urges adding a half teaspoon of salt in a glass of warm water and rinse with it three times daily for a quick recovery.
For him, honey is a must-have at home because it has antimicrobial properties, which may allow it to fight some bacteria and viruses.
Studies show that honey was effective in relieving coughing as a symptom of a cold in children over the age of 1 year. Several studies also suggest that honey is an effective remedy to treat flu.
He advises putting two teaspoons of honey into a glass of warm water, stir it well and drink it to get relief from a sore throat or cough.
Eating foods rich in zinc like broccoli, kidney beans, beef, yogurt and others can also help you ease the symptoms. This nutrient helps the body to make more white blood cells, that fight foreign germs and viruses and is important for our immune system.
Garlic has shown promise as a treatment for preventing colds and the flu. Studies have shown that garlic reduces the risk of becoming sick and can reduce the severity of symptoms.
Baingi carries on that herbal tea may help your body fight off the flu virus. A hot herbal drink is also soothing to your throat and sinuses. You can add other herbs like; green or black tea, turmeric, fresh or dried ginger, or ginger paste and fresh garlic.
He adds that feeding on a balanced diet assists in fighting illnesses such as flu. The stomach flu can give you nausea, cramps, and diarrhoea.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention- CDC, the single best way to prevent seasonal flu is to get vaccinated each year, but good health habits like avoiding people who are sick, covering your cough and washing your hands often can help stop the spread of germs and prevent respiratory illnesses like flu. There also are flu antiviral drugs that can be used to treat and prevent flu.