流感进入快速上升期！这样预防还来得及

Core Viewpoint - The flu is currently on the rise in China, with a positivity rate nearing 45%, indicating a shift to epidemic levels, and some provinces reaching high epidemic levels [1] Group 1: Flu Overview - Influenza is an acute respiratory infectious disease caused by the influenza virus, which has four types: A, B, C, and D. The predominant strain in China is currently the H3N2 subtype [3] - The flu typically peaks between late December and early January, followed by a decline [2] Group 2: Transmission and Symptoms - The flu spreads primarily through respiratory droplets from sneezing, coughing, or talking, and can also spread via contact with contaminated surfaces [4] - Typical symptoms of the flu include sudden high fever (often reaching 39°C to 40°C), chills, severe headaches, muscle aches, and extreme fatigue, distinguishing it from the common cold, which mainly affects the nose and throat [8] Group 3: Prevention and Vaccination - Vaccination is crucial for flu prevention, and it is still effective to get vaccinated even as flu activity rises, as antibodies take 2 to 4 weeks to develop [18] - The World Health Organization estimates that seasonal flu can lead to 3 million to 5 million severe cases and 290,000 to 650,000 respiratory disease-related deaths annually [19] - The flu vaccine significantly reduces the risk of severe illness and death, with a risk reduction of over 40% for the general population and even higher for vulnerable groups [19] Group 4: High-Risk Groups and Recommendations - High-risk groups for severe flu complications include infants, pregnant women, the elderly, and individuals with chronic health conditions [10] - It is advised that individuals in these high-risk categories seek medical attention promptly if flu symptoms develop [10]