"I've Got the Flu"

This is a common expression around this time of the year and it can mean just about anything.

True influenza is caused by the Influenza virus. Different strains keep occurring and they are given popular names, such as this season's Russian or Texan, depending on where they were first isolated. So far this year none of the expected new strains have yet appeared, and previous strains have not been isolated so in fact there hasn't been an Influenza epidemic, yet. Whatever you've got or have had it probably wasn't Influenza in the strict medical sense.

At Student Health we assist the National Health Institute's Virus Laboratory in monitoring the incidence of viruses in the community. Throat swabs and blood samples from sufferer are sent to the special laboratory. The co-operation of students in donating samples is always gratifying. Your contributions really are appreciated.

If you haven't had the flu, what was it? There are about fifty different viruses that cause colds and respiratory infections and they are particularly prevalent in the winter. How can you tell the difference between an ordinary cold and influenza?

Colds are more common. They may start with a sore throat, a running nose, stuffiness, sneezing, coughing and sometimes a hoarse voice. With influenza the throat and nose are less affected but the chest may be painful. There is a high fever, and you feel much worse with severe headache and generalised aching in the back and limbs. The onset is usually rapid, and after the fever subsides you are left feeling weak for some days after.

With uncomplicated cases of cold, flu or any other respiratory virus you don't need to see a doctor unless your illness has to be documented for examination or assessment purposes.