How does the influenza virus spread through the air?
According to Dr. Brunda MS, senior consultant - Internal Medicine, Aster CMI Hospital, Bangalore (India), the influenza virus is mainly transmitted through drops in the air. When the patient coughs, sneezes, talks or even just breathes, the virus can spread around them.
These drops are small, difficult to see and can exist in the air for a short time. When others inhale directly, the virus will enter the nose, mouth or lungs and cause infection. This is the reason why the flu can spread quickly in crowded places.
Why does closed space increase the risk of flu?
Dr. Brunda MS said that the flu virus is more contagious when people are close to each other for a long time, especially in:
Small room
Poor ventilation
Cold and dry air
In these conditions, the virus can stay in the air longer. Therefore, if there are people with the flu at home or at work, people around are susceptible to the flu, especially in winter.
Can the flu be spread through other routes?
In addition to air transmission, the flu can also be transmitted when:
Stand near a patient who is coughing or sneezing, causing the drop to come into direct contact with the eyes, nose or mouth
touch virus-prone surfaces such as door handles, phones, desks and put your hands on your face
Notably, people with the flu can become infected even without symptoms and are still susceptible to the disease within a few days of the outbreak. This makes flu prevention more difficult.
Who is at higher risk of severe flu?
Anyone can get the flu, but some groups are at risk of more serious complications, including:
Elderly people
Pregnant women
People with weak immune systems
People with chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, lung disease
In these subjects, the flu can progress severely and require early medical attention.
How to reduce the risk of flu?
You can protect yourself and those around you with the following simple measures:
Wear a mask when going to crowded places or closed spaces
Keep your distance from people with flu symptoms
Open windows or increase ventilation in the room
Wash your hands regularly, avoid touching your face
Weaving surfaces that are regularly exposed
In addition, getting vaccinated against influenza every year is an effective way to reduce the risk of disease and limit the severity of flu infection.
Note
According to Dr. Brunda MS, the flu can be spread through the air, especially when you breathe in the same space as the patient in a closed environment and have poor ventilation. However, wearing a mask, staying hygienic, improving ventilation and getting fully vaccinated can significantly reduce the risk of flu infection.
Proactive prevention not only protects yourself but also contributes to protecting public health.
(The information in the article is for reference only, not a replacement for medical diagnosis or treatment. You should talk directly to your doctor for accurate advice that is suitable for your health condition.)
