by Tara Rijon

Created on: May 01, 2009   Last Updated: May 17, 2009

The simple definition of influenza would be to say that it is a respiratory ailment caused by a virus. Unfortunately, there are different types (and subtypes) of influenza and a variety of different strains. Type C is no more severe than the common cold. Type B can produce epidemics, but its symptoms are generally quite mild and not cause for concern. Type A influenza virus can cause widespread pandemics that can result in a multitude of deaths.

The moment the flu virus enters your body it begins to replicate. It invades your respiratory system and permeates your bloodstream. As the virus attacks your cells your body will ache, you will start to feel lethargic, and a fever will develop. A healthy person will begin to show signs of recovery once the body's immune system kicks in, but a weakened immune system can result in a more serious condition setting in, or cause an escalation in an underlying health condition.

For the past several weeks the media has been racing to stay abreast of the recently discovered H1N1 influenza virus. Initially labeled Swine Flu, H1N1 is a drug-resistant influenza A type virus. This type A virus is then broken down even further in order to identify its components. This particular strain is a combination of a swine, avian and a human virus, which makes it more difficult to treat. As with any influenza virus, it is important that proper treatment is administered promptly.


Rest

Your body's immune system needs rest in order to function properly. The immune system works overtime while you are asleep, and the blood that is normally stored in our organs during the day moves to our muscles to nourish and repair them. There is no simple rule as to how much sleep any one person requires, but when combating the flu, there is no such thing as too much sleep. If you don't feel like sleeping, stay in bed. Any rest is better than no rest at all.


Fluids

It is imperative that the body stay hydrated, so sufficient fluids are important. Your body is constantly losing fluids, and a fever increases this loss many times over. Drink lots of water or other liquids. Green tea is loaded with anti-toxins that will help to fight off the virus. Citrus juices are full of vitamin C, which is essential to good health, and should be consumed in large quantities.


Proper Nutrition

The old adage feed a cold and starve a fever is terribly misplaced. The human body requires good nutrition at all times, and especially when it is trying to

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