The Flu

I have been laid low by the second worst flu attack on me ever. It might have been floating around the Lufthansa flight on our return from Barcelona-MUC-LAX flight on 5/4/2014, LH452, MUC-LAX, 11 1/2hr flight. On Monday, 5/7, I had malaise and whole body weakness. Starting on Tuesday, painful pharyngeal symptoms: like shooting pain from dry cracks in my throat, that gradually moved to my nasal areas. I was so desperate for relief I had to stand over a pan of boiling water for some respite from the pain. Then persistent hiccuping began after uncontrollable bouts of coughing. Nothing gave me comfort, and I became fatigued from walking around the house to escape the pain and misery through self distraction. What is the purpose of flu? Why does it exist to torment us? I am pissed! It has ruined my life for almost two weeks now. I certainly hope I haven't passed it on. So far, the only victim seems to be Claudia, bless her soul. She tried everything to avoid breathing in my germs at work, but the flood of aerosolized virus particles finally got to her. Today, Thursday, I noticed she was sneezing and dribbling. Yup, she got it. Damn it! I really hope she doesn't suffer like I have...the intractable coughing and hiccuping is torture. It's exhausting to the point of emotional collapse.