The flu is affecting the Italian population with particular intensity, with a sharp increase in acute respiratory infections and constantly growing viral circulation; the peak is expected after the holidays. In the province of Treviso, according to data from Ulss 2, in the last week over 15 thousand people have contracted the flu, with an incidence of 14 cases per thousand inhabitants. Two thirds of the infections are linked to seasonal influenza and the new K variant. The situation has had serious consequences: 13 elderly people died from influenza-related pneumonia and temporary critical issues were recorded in the morgues of Castelfranco Veneto and Montebelluna. Thirteen elderly people have died: 200 hospitalized in Ulss 2 hospitals.
Symptoms
The symptoms of flu are similar to those caused by other viral infections and come on suddenly. The onset is often characterized by high feveraccompanied by widespread muscle pain, cough and a marked one feeling tired. To these disorders can be added headache, chills, loss of appetite and sore throat. In children, not infrequently, they also appear nausea and diarrhea.
The incubation period is short and symptoms generally appear within two days of infectionwith the possibility of transmitting the virus already in the 24 hours previous upon their appearance. The duration of the flu is on average 7–10 daysalthough tiredness may persist longer.
In more fragile subjects the infection can occur complications requiring medical interventionsuch as pneumonia, breathing difficulties, states of mental confusion with possible involvement of the central nervous system and, in the most serious cases, cardiac complications. The greatest risks concern the elderly, young children, pregnant women and people with chronic diseases.
What to do
In case of flu it is essential to promote the recovery of the body with adequate reststaying in bed to avoid complications and relapses. It is equally important to maintain a good hydrationdrinking water, tea or herbal teas and avoiding alcohol and caffeine. They can be used to relieve fever and pain symptomatic drugs such as paracetamol or ibuprofen, and nasal decongestants, always following the doctor’s opinion. And’light but nutritious dietrich in fruit, vegetables and proteins, helps support the immune system. The environment should be well ventilated and with air that is not too dry, avoiding excessive covering. It is also advisable to take care of thehygienelimiting close contact and using a mask if you have to go out.
The K variant
Contributing to the increase in cases is the spread of K varianta subclade of the influenza virus A/H3N2 which, according to the World Health Organization, is rapidly increasing. At the moment it is no longer dangerous in terms of severity, but it is associated with a high number of infections and often intense symptoms, especially in the most vulnerable population groups.
Prevention and vaccination
Some simple daily prevention measures are essential: wash your hands often, avoid closed and crowded places in the presence of symptoms and respect therespiratory labelthat is, covering your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze, preferably with a tissue or the crook of your elbow, to reduce the spread of viruses.
Experts remind that It is still useful to get vaccinatedas the virus will continue to circulate for several weeks. The flu vaccination is recommended from the age of 60for the pregnant womenper i children from 6 months to 6 yearsfor the people with chronic diseasesfor the healthcare workers and for them professional categories of collective interest.
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