grippviirused

Grippviirused, commonly known as influenza viruses, are RNA viruses belonging to the Orthomyxoviridae family. These viruses are responsible for causing influenza, a contagious respiratory illness that can range from mild to severe. There are several types of influenza viruses, including types A, B, C, and D. Influenza A and B viruses are the primary causes of seasonal epidemics in humans. Influenza A viruses are further classified into subtypes based on two surface glycoproteins: hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA).

Influenza viruses are transmitted through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs. Less often, a person might get influenza by touching a surface or object that has the virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes.

Symptoms of influenza typically include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, and fatigue. Some people may experience vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children. While most people recover within a few days to less than two weeks, some individuals can develop serious complications, such as pneumonia, bronchitis, sinus infections, and ear infections. In rare cases, influenza can lead to more severe complications, including inflammation of the heart (myocarditis), brain (encephalitis) or muscle tissues (myositis, rhabdomyolysis), and can make chronic medical problems worse.

Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent influenza. Influenza vaccines are designed to protect against the influenza viruses that research indicates will be most common during the upcoming season. Antiviral drugs can also be used to treat influenza, and they work best when started within 48 hours of symptom onset.