Influenza is an acute respiratory disease caused by the influenza virus, which can cause uncomfortable symptoms such as coughing, sore throat, and high fever. Especially in autumn and winter, it is the peak period of influenza. The cold weather and frequent indoor gatherings make the influenza virus easier to spread. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), millions of people around the world are infected with influenza every year, and many of them will develop serious complications.
Facing the flu peak, we need to take various measures to protect the health of ourselves and our families. In addition to getting vaccinated, maintaining good hygiene habits and a balanced diet and lifestyle, the immune - enhancing and antibacterial properties of Manuka honey can serve as a natural supplementary solution to help us better cope with the challenges of the flu season.
Understanding Influenza: Incubation Period, Transmission Routes, Symptoms, and Virus Types
Influenza is an acute respiratory infection caused by the influenza virus, with an incubation period of usually 1 to 4 days. The virus is mainly transmitted through droplets (coughing, sneezing), as well as contact transmission (touching the mouth, nose, or eyes after touching a contaminated surface).
Influenza symptoms are more severe than those of the common cold, with common symptoms including:
- High fever (≥38°C): Often accompanied by chills
- Severe headache and muscle soreness: Obvious general soreness
- Sore throat: Swollen and painful discomfort in the throat
- Dry cough: Persistent cough
Virus types: Influenza viruses are mainly divided into the following four categories:
- Type A virus: The most common and can cause global pandemics.
- Type B virus: Transmitted only among humans.
- Type C virus: Mild symptoms, mainly affecting a small area.
- Type D virus: Usually infects animals and has little impact on humans.
Influenza peak period and regional differences
The peak flu season varies by geographic location:
- In the Northern Hemisphere (such as Hong Kong, the United States, and Europe), peak periods are concentrated from November to February of the following year. Cold weather and holiday gatherings increase the risk of transmission.
- In the Southern Hemisphere (such as Australia and New Zealand), peak periods usually occur during the winter season from May to August.
For more region-specific professional advice, please refer toCDC's Influenza Peak Guidelines.
Comparison of flu symptoms with those of other diseases
| symptoms | influenza | cold | COVID-19 |
|---|---|---|---|
| High fever | Fever (≥38°C) | Occasionally appear | Common, with chills |
| Headache/muscle soreness | Prominent | Mild or none | Common |
| Sore throat | Common | Common | Common |
| Dry cough | Common | Mild or none | Common |
Effective prevention of influenza: Proactive measures to protect health
To prevent influenza, we can take the following measures:
- Get the influenza vaccine: Get the influenza vaccine on time every year.
- Wash hands frequently: Thoroughly clean both hands with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Wear a mask: Especially in densely populated public places.
- Maintain social distance: Avoid close contact with sick people.
- Keep indoor air circulating: Open windows for ventilation frequently.
- Balanced diet, adequate sleep, and regular exercise: Enhance your own immunity.
For more detailed prevention strategies, please refer toCDC's Influenza Prevention Guidelines.
Manuka honey: A natural helper to boost immunity
In addition to the above preventive measures, you can also consider using Manuka honey to boost immunity and assist in preventing and alleviating flu symptoms. Manuka honey from New Zealand is famous for its unique antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, and its active ingredient methylglyoxal (MGO) can effectively combat a variety of bacteria. Studies have shown that Manuka honey has the following benefits:
- Boost immunity: Rich in antioxidants, it can help the body resist infections.
- Soothe sore throat: Its anti-inflammatory properties can effectively relieve throat discomfort.
- Promote wound healing: (Optional, depending on product positioning) Manuka honey also has the effect of promoting wound healing.
Mānuka honey consumption suggestions:
You can take one to two teaspoons of Manuka honey daily, either directly or mixed with warm water to drink.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ): Influenza and Manuka Honey
- What is the difference between influenza and a cold?
Influenza and the common cold are both respiratory diseases, but the severity of symptoms differs. Influenza is usually more severe than the common cold, with systemic symptoms including high fever (≥38°C), severe headache, muscle aches, fatigue, and dry cough. The common cold, on the other hand, typically has milder symptoms, mainly manifested as nasal congestion, runny nose, and sore throat.
- How does Manuka honey help prevent or relieve the flu?
Manuka honey is rich in a unique active ingredient called methylglyoxal (MGO), which has natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. It can help boost immunity and alleviate discomforts such as sore throat caused by the flu.
- What should be noted during the flu peak period?
During the flu peak period, preventive measures should be strengthened:
Wash hands frequently.Wash hands with soap and running water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Wear a maskEspecially in densely populated public places.
Maintain social distancingAvoid close contact with sick people.
Influenza vaccinationGet the influenza vaccine on time every year.
- How to effectively prevent the flu?
The most effective way to prevent influenza is to get vaccinated against the flu. In addition, maintaining good hygiene habits (frequent hand washing, wearing masks), and a healthy lifestyle (balanced diet, adequate sleep, regular exercise) are also very important.
- What are the common complications of influenza?
If influenza is not treated in time, it may lead to serious complications such as pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), myocarditis, and even endanger life. If there are any severe symptoms, medical attention should be sought immediately.
- How does the influenza virus spread?
The influenza virus is mainly transmitted through droplets. When an infected person coughs, sneezes, or speaks, the virus can spread into the air with droplets. In addition, touching the mouth, nose, or eyes after coming into contact with a surface contaminated by the virus may also lead to infection.
I hope the above information can help you stay healthy during the flu season and better cope with the challenges of the flu season. If you have any health problems, please consult a doctor or other medical professionals. If you want to learn more about health knowledge, feel free to read our other columns!
Extended reading
Recommendations for the consumption of Manuka honey
How to choose Manuka honey? What is the MGO value?
7 Major Benefits of Manuka Honey: Add to Your Daily Health
Manuka honey and red ginseng: Powerful natural health formula
When can Manuka honey be most effective when consumed?
How does Manuka honey help repair the digestive system?
The effects of Manuka honey on acid reflux: Natural antacid therapy and scientific evidence
The flu peak is coming! Four major benefits of Manuka honey help you boost your immunity!
