"What to do when the flu is coming back"

It became worldwide news when Taiwanese actress "Das" or Xu Xiyuan, known for her role as "Sanchai" in the drama "Meteor Garden" that was popular in Thailand over 20 years ago, passed away from influenza in Japan.

This has made the world once again aware of the "influenza" disease, which is currently experiencing a particularly severe outbreak in Japan.

Influenza is a respiratory infection that affects millions of people worldwide each year. Today, NOWFOODSTHAILAND will look at information about this virus, including prevention methods, treatment, and useful self-care tips about what we should keep handy.

What is Influenza? 

Influenza is caused by the "Influenza" virus that enters the nose, throat, and in some cases can spread to the lungs. It's divided into 4 types: A, B, C, and D. Types A and B are the main causes of seasonal outbreaks. The virus can spread through droplets from coughing, sneezing, or talking by infected people.

How to Prevent Influenza

• Annual Vaccination 

Flu vaccines are updated yearly to protect against the most prevalent strains, especially for high-risk groups such as young children, elderly, pregnant women, and immunocompromised individuals.

• Personal Hygiene 

Wash hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially before eating or touching your face. If soap or hand gel isn't available, alcohol gel can be used as an alternative.

• Coughing and Sneezing Etiquette 

Use tissue paper to cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and dispose of used tissues immediately. If tissues aren't available, cough or sneeze into your elbow instead of your hands.

Who Needs Special Caution

• Pregnant women should see a doctor immediately when experiencing flu symptoms due to high risk of complications

• People with underlying conditions such as asthma, heart disease, or diabetes should have a treatment plan with their regular doctor

• Young children and elderly may need close monitoring and early treatment

Nutrients and Vitamins that Help Boost Immunity

• Vitamin C 

According to a 2003 study by Padayatty et al., vitamin C has antioxidant properties that help strengthen the immune system effectively.

• Vitamin D3 

Research by Shaik-Dasthagirisaheb et al. in 2013 showed that vitamin D3 helps reduce inflammation and improves the immune system.

References

• Padayatty SJ, Katz A, Wang Y, Eck P, Kwon O, Lee J-H, “Vitamin C as an antioxidant: evaluation of its role in disease prevention,” J. Am. Coll. Nutr., vol. 22, no. 1, pp. 18–35, 2003.

• Y.B. SHAIK-DASTHAGIRISAHEB, G. VARVARA, G. MURMURA, A. SAGGINP, A. CARAFFA P. ANTINOLFI S. TETE, D. TRIPODI, F. CONTP, E. CIANCHETTI , E. TON IATO', M. ROSATP, L. SPERANZA, A. PANTALONE, R. SAGGINI, M. TEI , A. SPEZIALI, P. CONTI', T.C. THEOHARIDES and F. PANDOLFI, ROLE OF VITAMINS D, E AND C IN IMMUNITY AND INFLAMMATION, Journal of Biological Regulators & Homeostatic Agents, Vol. 27, no. 2, 291-295