THE FLUFlu is the common name for influenza which is a virus that attacks the respiratory system. The influenza virus releases its genetic information into the cell's nucleus to replicate. When the cell dies, those copies are released and affect other cells throughout the rest of the body. In this way the virus weakens the immune system. When you are sick with the flu, your body builds a defense by producing antibodies against it. The flu virus spreads through the air when a person coughs, sneezes or talks. The flu was first established in Seattle in September 1918. Avian influenza may also be known as “bird flu.” Avian influenza is transmitted by migratory birds. It can be transmitted from birds to mammals and in some limited circumstances to humans. The flu will also be known as the H5N1 virus. The H5N1 virus has raised concerns about a potential human pandemic because it is virulent (deadly; extremely dangerous) and can evolve like other influenza viruses. Like many other viruses and diseases, the flu can be much more deadly. When you get the flu, your lungs are severely damaged by infected cells called macrophages and T cells. The virus can spread far beyond the lungs, but generally not. Many people get the flu and think they have the common cold because of some of the same symptoms. But the flu can actually be more dangerous if you don't treat it immediately. Ways to prevent the flu: • Wash your hands often and thoroughly • Never collect used tissues • Never share used cups and/or utensils • Always cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze • Stay home when you sickThe research also says that after 5 days the fever and other symptoms have disappeared, but cough and weakness may continue. Usually all symptoms disappear within one to two weeks. But it's important to treat the flu seriously because it can lead to other viruses such as pneumonia and other life-threatening complications. It appears most often in newborns, the elderly, and people with long-term health problems. People with the flu may not know it, but they are actually contagious from the day before they felt sick. It is usually one week for adults and two weeks for small children. Anyone, at any age, can have serious complications with the flu, but those at high risk are people over age 50, children between 6 months and 2 years old, and women over 3 years old. months pregnant during flu season, anyone living in a long-term care facility, and anyone with chronic heart, lung, or kidney disease, diabetes, or a weakened immune system.