The typical transmission path of the flu virus | Flu virus

The typical transmission path of the flu virus

Infection with the flu virus is a classic example of a droplet infection. This term describes a transmission path via droplets containing the virus, which reach the air or hands when sneezing or coughing, for example.If they then quickly reach the mucous membranes of other people through inhalation or contact of the hands with the mouth, nose or eyes, they can implant themselves in them and the transmission path is complete. From these considerations, some of the basic rules in the context of a flu epidemic or in the case of one’s own flu illness become apparent: shaking hands should be avoided as well as any other direct physical contact with sick people.

Particularly bad “virus slingshots” such as door handles or handrails in public transport should be avoided. In addition, regular and thorough hand washing is of central importance. If you have to nibble or cough, you should not put it in your hand, but in your sleeve or a handkerchief. Regular airing also reduces the risk of infection.

How long is the flu virus contagious?

The tricky thing about the flu virus is that infected people can be contagious up to 24 hours before the first symptoms appear. Those affected do not even know that they are carrying the virus and therefore do not take any measures to contain the spread of the virus. Only when the physical symptoms begin to appear do you start to avoid close physical contact (or even stay at home) or wash your hands more often than usual.

Over the entire duration of the illness, there is then a risk of infection. This can only be ruled out 100% after the symptoms have subsided completely, with one restriction: children and immunocompromised persons may still have enough virus to be infected even after the symptoms have disappeared. This should therefore be taken into account in that the usual precautionary measures should be continued for at least 24 hours after the symptoms have disappeared.