Summary about Disease
Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. 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 include:
Fever or feeling feverish/chills (Not everyone with the flu has a fever)
Cough
Sore throat
Runny or stuffy nose
Muscle aches
Headache
Fatigue (tiredness)
Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.
Causes
Influenza is caused by influenza viruses. These viruses spread mainly by droplets made when people with the flu cough, sneeze, or talk. Less often, a person might get the flu by touching a surface or object that has flu virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or eyes.
Medicine Used
Antiviral drugs: These can lessen symptoms and shorten the duration of the illness. Examples include oseltamivir (Tamiflu), zanamivir (Relenza), peramivir (Rapivab), and baloxavir marboxil (Xofluza). They are most effective when started within 48 hours of symptom onset.
Over-the-counter medications: Pain relievers (acetaminophen, ibuprofen), decongestants, and cough suppressants can help manage symptoms.
Rest and Hydration: Resting and drinking plenty of fluids are crucial for recovery.
Is Communicable
Yes, influenza is highly communicable. People with the flu are most contagious in the first 3-4 days after their illness begins.
Precautions
Get vaccinated: Annual flu vaccination is the best way to prevent the flu.
Avoid close contact: Stay away from people who are sick.
Stay home when sick: If you are sick, stay home from work, school, and errands to avoid spreading the illness.
Cover your coughs and sneezes: Use a tissue to cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze.
Wash your hands: Wash your hands often with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Avoid touching your face: Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Clean and disinfect surfaces: Regularly clean and disinfect surfaces that may be contaminated with the flu virus.
How long does an outbreak last?
Flu outbreaks typically last for several weeks to months during the flu season. Flu season in the United States is considered during the fall and winter. An individual's illness typically lasts about 5-7 days, but fatigue and cough may persist for several weeks.
How is it diagnosed?
Clinical evaluation: A doctor can often diagnose the flu based on symptoms.
Rapid influenza diagnostic tests (RIDTs): These tests can detect influenza viruses in respiratory specimens (nasal swab or throat swab) within 30 minutes. These tests can be inaccurate.
Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR): is a laboratory test that is more accurate than RIDTs and can identify specific flu virus types and subtypes.
Timeline of Symptoms
Day 1-2: Symptoms typically appear suddenly and include fever, chills, body aches, and fatigue.
Day 3-4: Respiratory symptoms such as cough, sore throat, and runny nose become more prominent.
Day 5-7: Fever usually subsides, and other symptoms begin to improve.
Week 2-3: Fatigue and cough may persist for several weeks after the initial illness.
Important Considerations
The flu can be more severe in certain populations, including young children, older adults, pregnant women, and people with chronic health conditions.
Complications of the flu can include pneumonia, bronchitis, sinus infections, and ear infections.
Antiviral medications are most effective when started early in the course of the illness.
People at high risk of complications should seek medical care promptly if they develop flu symptoms.