Influenza

What is Influenza?

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness and, in some cases, can lead to complications and death, particularly in vulnerable populations.

Types of Influenza Viruses

• Influenza A: The most common type and responsible for most seasonal flu outbreaks. It can infect humans and animals and is known for causing pandemics.
• Influenza B: Typically causes seasonal outbreaks and primarily affects humans. It is less likely to cause pandemics compared to influenza A.
• Influenza C: Causes mild respiratory illness and is less common.
• Influenza D: Primarily affects cattle and is not known to infect humans.

Symptoms of Influenza

Flu symptoms usually appear suddenly and can include:

• Fever and chills
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle and body aches
• Fatigue
• Headaches
• Nausea and vomiting: More common in children than adults.

Transmission

• Person-to-person: The flu virus spreads primarily through droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks.
• Surface contact: Touching surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touching the nose, mouth, or eyes can lead to infection.

Risk Factors

• Age: Children under 5, adults over 65, and pregnant women are at higher risk.
• Chronic health conditions: People with asthma, heart disease, diabetes, or weakened immune systems.
• Living or working conditions: High exposure environments like nursing homes or crowded places.

Diagnosis

• Physical examination: A doctor will review symptoms and medical history.
• Rapid influenza diagnostic tests (RIDTs): Can provide results within 15-30 minutes.
• Molecular tests: More accurate tests like PCR can detect influenza with higher sensitivity.

Treatment Options

• Antiviral medications:
  • Oseltamivir (Tamiflu): Helps reduce the duration of symptoms if taken within the first 48 hours of symptom onset.
  • Zanamivir (Relenza): Inhaled antiviral medication.
  • Baloxavir (Xofluza): Single-dose oral treatment.
• Home care:
  • Rest: Helps the body recover.
  • Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated.
  • Pain relievers: Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen for fever and body aches.

Prevention Strategies

• Annual flu vaccination: The most effective way to prevent the flu and its complications.
• Good hygiene practices:
  • Hand washing: Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
  • Use of hand sanitizer: Alcohol-based hand sanitizers when soap and water are not available.
  • Covering coughs and sneezes: Use a tissue or elbow to prevent the spread of droplets.
• Avoid close contact: Stay away from sick individuals and limit interactions if you are unwell.

Complications of Influenza

• Pneumonia: A severe complication that can be life-threatening, especially in older adults and those with chronic conditions.
• Bronchitis: An infection of the bronchial tubes.
• Sinus and ear infections
• Worsening of chronic medical conditions: Conditions like asthma and heart disease can be exacerbated.
• Sepsis: Severe and potentially life-threatening response to infection.