Influenza and pneumonia

Influenza, pneumonia and bronchitis are all infections of the lower respiratory tract which kill, on average, over 17,000 women each year.

Caused by a virus, influenza usually causes the deaths of between 3 - 4,000 thousand people during a "normal" flu season, often more. You are more at risk of serious complications if you are elderly, have a weak immune system due to a pre-existing medical condition or medication or if you already have a chronic health condition.

Pneumonia is caused by a number of different bacteria and viruses. Although anyone can be infected, smokers, people with weakened immune systems and pre-existing health conditions are more at risk.

Both diseases are most common during the winter months.

Pneumonia symptoms

Any type of pneumonia can be serious. Symptoms usually include:

• Coughing up phlegm, which may be flecked with blood
• Breathlessness
• Wheezing
• Fever
• Rapid heartbeat
• Sweating, shivering
• Chest pain

Flu Symptoms

Many of us are already familiar with these:

• Headache
• Severe weakness and fatigue
• Fever
• Cough
• Aching muscles and joint pain
• Sore throat
• Runny nose

It's likely that pandemic swine flu will be the predominant influenza virus in future flu seasons. Diarrhoea and vomiting has also been associated with this particular strain of virus.

Prevention

• Get vaccinated. If you are in a high risk group, getting your yearly vaccination is the best way to prevent influenza. In addition, you can also get vaccinated against pneumococcal pneumonia
• Wash your hands regularly. Hands are frequently in contact with germs which can cause pneumonia. The chances of inhaling them and becoming infected increase when you rub your eyes or touch your face
• Don't smoke. It increases your risk of being infected
• Take care of yourself. Eat a healthy balanced diet and try to get some exercise, even in the winter months. This helps to keep your immune system healthy

This article was published on Wed 17 February 2010