Every year, influenza viruses infect 5–15% of the world’s population, resulting in 3-5 million cases of severe disease and 290,000–650,00 respiratory-related fatalities. Usually, the flu is spread by tiny airborne droplets that are released when a person coughs or sneezes. If you come into contact with something that has the flu virus on it and then touch your mouth, nose, or eyes, you could also get sick. People often mix up the flu and the common cold. Although they are distinct, you could have some of the same symptoms. Your nose, throat, and lungs are the main areas affected by the flu.

What is Influenza (Flu)?

The flu, also known as influenza, is an infectious respiratory disease caused by influenza viruses. Fever, coughing, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body pains, headaches, chills, and fatigue are some of the symptoms of the flu. It can lead to complications like pneumonia, bronchitis, and sinus and ear infections, depending on their severity. The flu can be particularly dangerous for people with weakened immune systems, the elderly, and young children. One of the most widespread infectious diseases is the flu. Between 20 and 40 million Americans contract the flu each year.

What are the Preventive Measures for Flu?

You’re likely to contract the flu this season if you don’t take steps to prevent it. The secret is to avoid becoming ill in the first place. Here are some methods for avoiding the flu.

• Get a flu shot, or flu vaccination, every year. It can reduce the flu risk by 40% to 60%. A single shot can protect against three to four distinct viruses.
• Wash your hands with soap and water regularly or sanitize them often.
• Cover your nose and mouth using your elbow or a tissue, not your bare hands, when you cough or sneeze.
• Avoid close contact with others if you or someone around you is suffering from the flu or any other infectious disease.
• Wear a mask to prevent the spread of germs if you’re feeling sick.
• To reduce your risk of spreading germs, refrain from touching your face, especially your eyes, nose, and mouth.

How to Treat Flu with Telemedicine?

Telemedicine is an excellent approach to receiving medical attention and minimizing the chances of disease transmission. If the flu is not severe, telehealth consultations can treat it effectively. Doctors and physicians can utilize telemedicine to diagnose and treat more patients with the flu during this flu season. Doctors can quickly assess a patient’s symptoms through a virtual consultation and provide them with a remote prescription, which saves patients both time and money. The telemedicine approach reduces wait times for patients who require in-person care and eliminates the need for patients to travel in inclement weather conditions during the colder months. Additionally, infectious patients can stay at home, reducing the risk of spreading the virus.

Faster Treatment

When a person develops flu symptoms, it is important that they receive treatment within 48 hours of the onset of the illness. However, it may not be feasible for many patients to schedule an in-person appointment with a healthcare provider on such short notice due to time constraints or a lack of resources. Fortunately, telemedicine technology enables patients to quickly connect with their doctor via live video capabilities, allowing them to receive antiviral drugs promptly. This is crucial as the effectiveness of these drugs may diminish if administered later than two days after the onset of symptoms. In situations where waiting for an in-person appointment is not an option, telemedicine can provide patients with access to the care they require.

Educating Patients

The flu season involves more than just treating patients who show flu symptoms; it also entails educating individuals on how they can prevent themselves from contracting the virus. Basic hygiene practices such as washing hands frequently, covering the nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, refraining from touching the eyes or mouth without washing hands, and disinfecting contaminated surfaces are crucial. Doctors can utilize virtual consultations to educate patients on preventing infection and encourage them to get vaccinated against the flu. During peak times when urgent care clinics and doctor’s offices become overwhelmed, telemedicine can provide fast and efficient diagnosis and treatment for patients with flu symptoms. Although some individuals may require in-person consultations for complex healthcare needs, most can receive adequate care through virtual consultations. In cases where patients need immediate access to antiviral drugs for flu symptoms, telemedicine can be the optimal choice.

If you are a doctor or other healthcare professional, join together with us to treat the flu using our DrCare247 telemedicine platform. Book your free demo and talk to our experts today!