Summary about Disease
Influenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu vaccine each year.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of the flu include:
Fever or feeling feverish/chills (Not everyone with flu will have a fever)
Cough
Sore throat
Runny or stuffy nose
Muscle or body aches
Headaches
Fatigue (tiredness)
Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.
Causes
The flu is caused by influenza viruses. These viruses spread mainly by droplets made when people with flu cough, sneeze or talk. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs. Less often, a person might get flu by touching a surface or object that has flu virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or eyes.
Medicine Used
4. Medicine used
Antiviral drugs: These medications (e.g., oseltamivir (Tamiflu), zanamivir (Relenza), peramivir (Rapivab), baloxavir marboxil (Xofluza)) can lessen symptoms and shorten the duration of illness. They work best when started within 48 hours of symptom onset.
Over-the-counter pain relievers and fever reducers: Medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can help alleviate fever, headaches, and body aches.
Decongestants and cough suppressants: These can provide symptomatic relief for nasal congestion and cough.
Is Communicable
Yes, influenza is highly contagious. It is typically communicable from one day before symptoms develop to about 5-7 days after becoming sick. Children may be contagious for longer.
Precautions
Get vaccinated: Annual flu vaccination is the best way to prevent the flu.
Avoid close contact with sick people: Maintain distance from individuals who are coughing or sneezing.
Wash your hands frequently: Use soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Cover your cough and sneeze: Use a tissue or your elbow to cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
Stay home if you are sick: Avoid going to work, school, or public places when you have flu symptoms.
Avoid touching your face: Reduce the risk of transferring viruses from your hands to your mouth, nose, or eyes.
How long does an outbreak last?
An individual flu infection typically lasts for 5-7 days, although fatigue and cough may persist for several weeks in some cases. A flu season or outbreak in a community can last for several weeks or months, typically during the fall and winter.
How is it diagnosed?
Clinical evaluation: A doctor can often diagnose the flu based on your symptoms and a physical exam.
Rapid influenza diagnostic tests (RIDTs): These tests can detect influenza viruses in respiratory specimens (e.g., nasal swab, throat swab). They are quick but may have a higher rate of false negative results.
Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR): This is a more accurate test that detects the genetic material of influenza viruses in respiratory specimens. It is typically used in hospital settings or during outbreaks to identify the specific strain of flu virus.
Timeline of Symptoms
Day 1-3: Symptoms usually begin abruptly with fever, chills, body aches, fatigue, and sore throat.
Day 3-5: Fever may begin to subside, but cough, congestion, and other respiratory symptoms may worsen.
Day 5-7: Symptoms gradually improve, although fatigue and cough may linger for several weeks.
Important Considerations
High-Risk Groups: Certain individuals are at higher risk of developing serious complications from the flu, including: young children, pregnant women, older adults, and people with chronic medical conditions (e.g., asthma, diabetes, heart disease). These individuals should seek medical attention promptly if they develop flu symptoms.
Complications: Possible complications of influenza include pneumonia, bronchitis, sinus infections, ear infections, and worsening of chronic medical conditions. In severe cases, flu can lead to hospitalization, and death.
Flu vs. Cold: Flu symptoms are often more severe and come on more abruptly than cold symptoms. Colds typically involve milder symptoms, such as a runny nose and sore throat, without high fever or body aches.