Influenza affects countless millions of individuals worldwide each year, with new epidemics developing with the changing of the seasons. Influenza is highly contagious and is spread by immune carriers as well as those already afflicted. The flu attacks individuals who are in otherwise robust health and once the virus enters the body there is little to do but try and minimize the symptoms. Several over-the-counter medications offer substantial relief from the pain, swelling and other symptoms normally associated with influenza.Influenza Is Constantly MutatingPeople can become ill with the flu throughout their entire life because the viruses that cause this condition change their molecular structure ever so slightly during reproduction. A flu virus will enter the body through the mouth, nose, eyes or other orifice. The virus attacks healthy cell, using the tissue to reproduce itself. The cell eventually explodes, releasing a great number of the virus members. The population increase is quite rapid and people who experience a flu know all too well how quickly the symptoms appear. Every so often the virus will produce a copy that is slightly different from the original and this is why different flu strains are seen.Treatment Options For InfluenzaDifferent strains of influenza result in a wide range of symptoms, the most common being dizziness, weakness, congestion of the nasal passages and runny nose. Non-prescription decongestants are the most common form of treatment, but individuals should always read the instructions carefully as even these over-the-counter medications can produce severe side effects if taken in combination with other pharmaceuticals. Aspirin, acetaminophen and ibuprofen can help ease the body aches that are often associated with influenza, however children under the age of five should not be given aspirin unless directed by a physician. Antihistamines can greatly ease the suffering of individuals with runny nose and watery eyes. Some strains of influenza affect the lower digestive system and those afflicted may experience diarrhea. This means a significant loss of body fluid which must be replaced regularly by drinking plenty of liquids. Antibiotics are not an effective treatment for influenza because they combine with bacteria only, not viral agents. Those with a case of influenza should not overwork themselves physically because the body is already in a weakened state. Foods that are hard to digest, such as meat and green, leafy vegetables will put a strain on the digestive system. Hot foods such as chicken soup should be avoided if the individual is running a fever.