gripas

Gripas is a colloquial term used in several Spanish-speaking countries to refer to illnesses with flu-like symptoms, commonly linked to influenza. The term is not a formal medical diagnosis; the standard term in Spanish for influenza is la gripe.

Usage varies by country. In many places gripa or gripes describe mild to moderate respiratory infections with fever, cough and malaise, while la gripe is used in more formal or clinical contexts to denote influenza.

Symptoms and natural history: Gripas typically present with fever, cough, sore throat, nasal congestion, myalgia and fatigue. Symptoms usually appear within one to four days after exposure and last about one to two weeks; children and older adults may experience more severe disease.

Causes and transmission: Most grippal illnesses are caused by influenza viruses or other respiratory viruses such as rhinoviruses. They spread primarily through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, and by touching contaminated surfaces.

Diagnosis and treatment: Diagnosis is usually clinical. In high-risk individuals, antiviral medications may reduce the duration and severity if started early. Antibiotics are not effective against viruses unless a bacterial complication is suspected.

Prevention and public health: Prevention focuses on vaccination, hand hygiene, respiratory etiquette and staying home when ill. In temperate regions influenza activity follows seasonal patterns and vaccination campaigns target high-risk groups.