Summary about Disease
Influenza, commonly known as the 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
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
Influenza is caused by influenza viruses. These viruses spread mainly through droplets made when people with flu cough, sneeze, or talk. 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: Oseltamivir (Tamiflu), zanamivir (Relenza), peramivir (Rapivab), and baloxavir marboxil (Xofluza). These medications can shorten the duration of the illness and may lessen the severity of symptoms. They are most effective when started within 48 hours of symptom onset.
Over-the-counter medications: Pain relievers (acetaminophen, ibuprofen), decongestants, cough suppressants, and expectorants can help relieve symptoms.
Is Communicable
Yes, influenza is highly communicable. It can spread easily from person to person.
Precautions
Get vaccinated: Annual flu vaccine is the best way to prevent infection.
Wash your hands: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
Cover your cough: Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
Avoid touching your face: Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
Stay home if you are sick: Stay home from work, school, and errands to prevent spreading the virus to others.
Avoid close contact: Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
Clean and disinfect surfaces: Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
How long does an outbreak last?
An individual flu infection typically lasts from 5 to 7 days, but some symptoms, such as cough and fatigue, may linger for a week or two longer. Flu season generally runs from fall to spring in the Northern Hemisphere. The peak of flu activity varies from year to year.
How is it diagnosed?
Influenza is typically diagnosed based on symptoms, but a rapid influenza diagnostic test (RIDT) can be used to confirm the diagnosis. These tests are performed on samples taken from the nose or throat. A PCR test is more sensitive and specific.
Timeline of Symptoms
9. Timeline of symptoms
Day 1-3: Sudden onset of symptoms, including fever, headache, body aches, fatigue, and sore throat.
Day 4-5: Fever may subside, but respiratory symptoms like cough and congestion become more prominent.
Day 6-7: Symptoms begin to improve, but fatigue and cough may persist.
Week 2: Most symptoms resolve, but some individuals may experience lingering fatigue and cough.
Important Considerations
Seek medical attention if you have difficulty breathing, chest pain, persistent dizziness, confusion, seizures, or worsening of underlying medical conditions.
Antiviral medications are most effective when started within 48 hours of symptom onset.
Infants, young children, pregnant women, adults 65 years and older, and people with certain medical conditions are at higher risk for flu complications.
Dehydration is a common concern during the flu. Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.