Your Flu & You
Devyn & Shahana
Viruses
Structures of cells are geometric, they are made of DNA or RNA, enzymes, and a protein coat. Viruses attack the host cell, and make the host cells a factory for the virus. They reproduce by injecting their DNA into host cells and the host cells create hundreds of viruses. They are extremely tiny compared to host cells, usually less than 100 nanometers (and are extremely small compared to bacteria. They are not cells because they can't reproduce alone, don't eat, don't have cellular structures, and can only live off of living cells.
The Details: Inflenza
The influenza disease, or just "the flu" is caused by the influenza virus. Symptoms may be fever, a runny nose, coughing, or a sore throat. In most cases, this disease lasts for less than a week, but in some extreme cases (such as a weak immune system from old age, or being pregnant) the flu may be deadly. This disease can be spread through the air, if someone coughs or sneezes; it can also be spread by touching surfaces where the virus has contaminated. There are some antivirals for the flu strain, but most people are encouraged to stay hydrated, get rest, and take medicine to relieve extreme symptoms. To prevent from getting the flu, people are encouraged to get yearly influenza vaccinations and washing hands/maintain good hygiene.