What is influenza?

Influenza, also known as flu, is a contagious respiratory disease caused by the influenza virus infecting one’s nose, throat, and, in extreme cases, the lungs. 

What are the signs and symptoms of influenza?

• Fever
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny nose.

What are types of influenza?

There are two main types of influenza:

a) Human seasonal influenza:

Such virus spreads mostly through the tiny droplets emitted from the person having flu when they sneeze, cough, or talk. These droplets travel to the nose and mouth of the healthy individuals present nearby. Influenza virus can also attack a person when they touch an object with flu virus on it and later touch their mouth or nose. 

b) Avian flu or bird flu:

This type spreads in the following ways:

• birds to humans
• birds' secretions from the mouth, nose, and eyes
• manure of poultry
• ingestion of undercooked food