Infection with serious consequences: What the viruses do to the body

A so-called "real" flu, i.e. an infection with influenza viruses, should not be taken lightly. The course of the illness can sometimes be quite severe and even fatal. The tricky thing is that the symptoms initially appear quite harmless. Without warning, flu patients shiver and suddenly feel weak. Later, fever, headaches and aching limbs, coughing and nausea are added. The viral illness ultimately affects the entire organism and keeps even otherwise healthy people confined to their hospital bed for a good week. What is particularly tricky is that the viral infection often leads to other illnesses. This is because the influenza viruses damage the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract, making it easier for other pathogens to enter.

A vaccination can protect you

Influenza viruses come in different types (A, B and C). Type A is particularly dangerous because it is spread worldwide and often changes its shape. Protective measures are correspondingly difficult. However, a flu vaccination could help here: In accordance with the recommendations of the World Health Organization, vaccines are recombined each flu season. Two A and two B strains have been in circulation for several years. Previously, people with health insurance only received a triple vaccine (for two A strains and one B strain). From this season, however, there is an innovation: people with statutory health insurance can now also receive the quadruple vaccine at the health insurance provider's expense. Talk to your doctor about whether quadruple protection is an advantage in the current season.

Flu or a cold: what's the difference?

It's the pathogen: while the flu is caused by dangerous influenza viruses, colds can be triggered by different viruses. Even if the symptoms are similar: In contrast to influenza, the common cold starts gradually and is usually shorter in duration. With natural remedies and homeopathic tri-complex remedies (e.g. Meditonsin, pharmacy), the common cold can be treated well from the very first signs.