Description: Influenza is an infectious disease caused by influenza viruses, primarily affecting the respiratory system. It is characterized by symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, and fatigue. Influenza spreads from person to person through respiratory droplets expelled when coughing or sneezing, as well as through contact with contaminated surfaces. There are several types of influenza viruses, with types A and B being the most common, which can cause seasonal epidemics. Influenza can vary in severity, from mild cases to severe complications, especially in vulnerable populations such as the elderly, young children, and individuals with pre-existing health conditions. Prevention includes annual vaccination, which is especially recommended during peak incidence periods, as well as hygiene measures such as handwashing and wearing masks. Influenza is a significant public health issue, as it can lead to hospitalizations and deaths, particularly during epidemic outbreaks.
History: Influenza has been recognized as a disease since ancient times, but its understanding has evolved over time. In 1933, the first influenza virus was identified, leading to significant advancements in the study of the disease. Throughout the 20th century, influenza caused several pandemics, the most devastating being the 1918 pandemic, known as the ‘Spanish flu,’ which is estimated to have killed between 50 and 100 million people worldwide. Since then, vaccines and antiviral treatments have been developed to combat the disease, and surveillance systems have been implemented to monitor the circulation of influenza viruses.
Uses: Influenza is used as a medical term to describe a viral respiratory illness that can be preventable through vaccination. Influenza vaccines are developed annually to adapt to circulating strains of the virus and are used in public health campaigns to reduce the incidence of the disease. Additionally, the study of influenza is crucial for virological and epidemiological research, helping to better understand the dynamics of viral infections and their impact on public health.
Examples: An example of the importance of influenza vaccination was observed during the H1N1 pandemic in 2009, where a specific vaccine was developed to combat the circulating strain of the virus. Another case is the annual vaccination campaigns carried out in many countries to protect the most vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and individuals with chronic illnesses, especially during the flu season.
