Influenza (Flu)

Influenza is better known as the flu. Everyone has had influenza at some point in their life. In most cases people only ever experience mild strains of influenza, which make them sneeze, cough, suffer muscle aches and feel nauseous among other symptoms. After a brief period of illness these more mild strains usually go away fairly quickly.

However, more severe strains of influenza have been recorded and can do serious damage to people's health. One of the most prominent recent examples is that of swine flu or H1N1. The global swine flu pandemic first emerged in 2009 and has claimed thousands of lives. Although swine flu is no longer common in most countries, cases are still occurring. The World Health Organisation has warned that people should still be vigilant about swine influenza; particularly if they are travelling to areas of the world (such as West Africa) where swine flu is continuing to spread.

The swine influenza and bird influenza viruses

Two strains of influenza have gathered a great deal of media attention in recent years. The first of these was bird influenza or 'avian flu' (H5N1). The first outbreak of avian flu occurred in 1987. The disease has killed millions of poultry. It has also been transmitted to humans. By August 2009 an estimated 262 humans, most of whom lived in Asian countries, had died from swine flu. The WHO has stated that bird flu victims who receive early treatment from Tamiflu are most likely to survive.

In 2009 a different strain of influenza grabbed the world's attention. Swine influenza was a virus that originated in Mexico. It quickly spread to other countries, causing illness and death. Tamiflu helped thousands of people who were struck down with the virus to recover more quickly. Influenza vaccines also helped some people to avoid ever becoming infected with the virus. In August 2010 the WHO declared that the swine flu pandemic was officially over. But new infections continue to occur in some parts of the world and experts warn that we should remain vigilant for a new outbreak.

Influenza treatment: Tamiflu

Tamiflu is the most widely prescribed treatment for influenza. It is a highly effective influenza treatment that is clinically proven to help people recover 30% faster, if it is taken within 48 hours of symptoms first showing.

Tamiflu can be useful for treating many different strains of flu. Because Tamiflu works best when taken soon after symptoms begin to show, many people now turn to reputable internet firms to acquire their influenza treatments. Legitimate websites offer comprehensive online consultations, where a form must be filled in and viewed by a doctor before a prescription is issued.