The weather is shifting once again, and with it comes the familiar yet often underestimated seasonal flu. Hospitals and clinics are reporting a surge in cases.
“Every day we are getting a lot of patients coming in here with the signs of flu”, said Dr. Sakib Abrar, a medical officer of internal medicine at Dhaka Medical College. While most recover within a week, ignoring symptoms or failing to rest properly can prolong illness and lead to complications.
Seasonal flu caused by the influenza virus is commonly known as the flu. It appears every year during seasonal changes, especially from late monsoon to early winter. The flu season usually lasts from April to September, peaking in July and August.
“The influenza virus can survive and spread more effectively during colder and drier weather. That is why it is so rampant during these times in Bangladesh”, explained Dr. Sakib. It spreads rapidly in crowded places, such as schools, universities, offices, and public transportation, putting children, students, office workers and the elderly at high risk.
Flu symptoms usually appear suddenly and vary in intensity. Common signs include:
- Fever and chills
- Headaches and body aches
- Runny or blocked nose
- Sore throat
- Persistent cough
- Fatigue and weakness
Some people, especially children, may also experience vomiting and diarrhoea. Unlike the common cold, which develops gradually, flu tends to strike suddenly, leaving people drained.
“Many people confuse the flu with the common cold, but colds are usually milder, marked by a runny nose and frequent sneezing”, explained the doctor.
Many also mistake flu for COVID because the initial symptoms can seem alike. “COVID usually lasts longer and is often accompanied by a loss of taste and smell”, he added.
Seasonal flu may not seem alarming, but it can be dangerous for people with chronic illnesses like asthma, diabetes or heart disease.
Doctors advise that the first step in treating flu is rest and proper sleep, as the body needs time and energy to fight the infection. Here is some advice for patients suffering from the flu:
- Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, soups and herbal teas to stay hydrated.
- Take over-the-counter medications such as paracetamol to reduce fever and ease body aches.
- Stay at home and avoid close contact to prevent spreading the virus to others.
- Use a mask when coughing or sneezing and maintain proper hygiene by washing hands frequently.
Doctors also advise against taking antibiotics because the flu is caused by virus not bacteria.
“In most cases, resting at home and following the advice should be enough to treat the flu. But, if symptoms persist for more than 10 days, or if one has trouble breathing, chest pain or severe dehydration, he or she could consider consulting with a doctor or going to the hospital”, informs the medicine specialist.
Vaccination, maintaining good nutrition and avoiding sudden exposure to cold or rain are all effective preventive measures against the flu.
As Dr. Sakib emphasised, flu comes every year with the changing seasons, but proper awareness and timely care can prevent it from turning into a prolonged struggle.