Investment-Linked Funds

Ah-Chooo! Is it the flu?

02 March 2021

Is it the flu?

The flu may be seasonal in the American and European
continents, but this is not the case in countries like Malaysia.
Experts have noted that even though there were spikes during
the monsoon season in the northern and southern areas of
Malaysia, it is always best to stay vigilant all year round.

So, what exactly is the flu?

The flu defined

Influenza is an acute respiratory infection which circulates in all parts of the world. It is contagious and is usually caused by the Influenza A and B virus which attacks your system. It is commonly known as the flu, but it is not the same as a stomach "flu" virus that causes diarrhoea and vomiting.

Who is at high risk?

Generally, for most people, the flu goes away on its own. But sometimes it can be deadly especially for:

Young children under the age of 5

Adults older than the age of 65

Pregnant women and women in confinement

People with weakened immune systems

People who have chronic illnesses

People who have an obese BMI

Colds often develop gradually over a few days and are usually milder than flu. People with colds are more likely to have a runny or stuffy note. Colds generally do not result in serious health problems, such as pneumonia, bacterial infections, or hospitalisations.

On the other hand, flu symptoms can include a dry, hacking cough as well as a moderate to high fever. Flu symptoms come on quickly and can be severe, lasting usually from 1 to 2 weeks.

What to do when you have the flu?

Call your work or school and tell them you won't be coming in for a few days. You're sick & very contagious!

Take the time off and give your body some much-needed rest.

Drink plenty of fluids. It doesn't all have to be water - fruit juices, sports drinks, and soups also count.

If you have developed a fever, it's your body fighting off the infection. Consult your pharmacist for the best medicines to manage the fever.

Steam up by letting the shower run hot until the room is filled with moist steam and take a deep breath. Sit away from the water to avoid burns.

If the air in your house is dry, a mist humidifier or vaporizer can moisten it to help ease congestion and coughs.

Frest fruits and vegetables provide important vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that strengthen your immune system as it fights off the virus.

Prevention is better than cure

Here's how you can protect yourself against the flu bug:

Avoid close contact with people who are sick

Wash your hands with soap or sanitise it

Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth

Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces at home, work or school

Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food

When to

see a doctor?

High or prolonged fever
(above 38 Celsius or a fever lasting more than 3-5 days)

Difficulty in breathing or shortness of breath

Pain or pressure in the chest

Fainting or near-fainting

Confusion

Severe or persistent vomiting and/or
the inability to keep down food or water

One of the best ways to safeguard yourself from getting the flu is to get your annual flu shot.

Vaccination has been shown to have many benefits including reducing the risk of flu illnesses, hospitalisations and even the risk of flu-related death in children.

If you are an AIA policyholder with a Health Wallet attached to your plan, you get to utilise the money in your Health Wallet for a flu shot. Plus, if you are an AIA Vitality member, you also get rewarded with points when you complete your flu vaccination.

REFERENCES

www.webmd.com/cold-and-flu/coping-with-flu#3

www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/flu/symptoms-causes/syc-20351719

www.nhs.uk/conditions/flu

www.healthline.com/health/influenza/what-to-do-first-sign

www.cdc.gov/flu/treatment/takingcare.htm

www.cdc.gov/flu/prevent/actions-prevent-flu.htm

www.malaymail.com/news/life/2020/10/09/all-year-round-malayian-expert-cautions-about-the-dangers-of-flu-and-what/1911206

healthmetrics.co/m/guide-for-hrs-influenza-flu-vaccine-for-malaysian-companies

www.cdc.gov/flu/prevent/keyfacts.htm#:~:text=An%20annual%2seasonal%20flu%20vaccine,flu%2Drelated%20death%20in%20children

www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2021/02/08/safeguarding-seniors-from-the-flu

18 March 2020

Vaccination Keeps You Safe, Keeps Me Safe

Influenza, measles, and hepatitis B are just a few of the many diseases that can be prevented by a vaccine. Vaccination is one of the most critical and non-optional medical treatment that every person should obtain. Find out some vaccination facts from Dr Loo Chee Yean here.

05 February 2021

Can Exercising Increase Your Immune System?

Did you know that regular exercise can boost your immune system and help fight off infections? But why and how does this work? Let’s unwrap this question and understand the relationship between exercising and your immune system.

10 October 2020

How to Take Care of Your Mental Health during the Pandemic

The recent COVID-19 pandemic has led to natural increases in stress, worry and anxiety for many people around the world. The uncertainty associated with the virus, the disruption to usual routines, and the economic instability can have significant impacts on your wellbeing and mental health. How can you better manage your mental health through these trying times? Here are some tips.

AIA Vitality

The science-backed wellness programme that works with you and rewards you for the healthy choices you make.

Medical Protection

ADD-ON

A-Plus Health Booster

Medical Protection

This is an optional medical rider for A-Life Med Regular to enhance your medical protection and rewards you for living healthy.

Our Products

Investment-Linked Funds

Life Protection

Medical Protection

Critical Illness Protection

Savings & Investment

Accident Protection

Property Solutions

Motor Insurance

Online Products

AIA Vitality

Employee Benefits

Commercial Insurance

AIA Vitality

How It Works

REWARDS & BENEFITS

Member’s Testimonial

Join AIA Vitality

What Matters

Health & Wellness

Finance & Insurance

Video Gallery

Mental Wellbeing

Health Statistics

About AIA

About AIA Bhd.

About AIA Public Takaful Bhd

About AIA General Berhad

About AIA Pension & Asset Management

Career Opportunities

Community & Partnerships

Media Centre

Events & Promotions

Customer Charter

Help & Support

Contact Us

Locate Us

Claims Process And Guides

Premium Payment

FAQ

Important Announcements

Form Library

How to Guides

My AIA

CUSTOMER PORTAL

CORPORATE PORTAL

EN

BM

Contact Us

AIA BHD.

AIA PUBLIC TAKAFUL BHD.

AIA General Berhad

AIA Roadside Assist

Ah-Chooo! Is it the flu?

Is it the flu?

The flu defined

Who is at high risk?

What to do when you have the flu?

Prevention is better than cure

When to

see a doctor?

One of the best ways to safeguard yourself from getting the flu is to get your annual flu shot.

Related Articles

Vaccination Keeps You Safe, Keeps Me Safe

Can Exercising Increase Your Immune System?

How to Take Care of Your Mental Health during the Pandemic

Recommended Products

AIA Vitality

AIA Vitality

Medical Protection

A-Plus Health Booster

One Second Survey

One Second Survey

One Second Survey