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Influenza
The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. Three types of influenza viruses exist. Types A and B cause epidemics of severe respiratory illnesses known as “the flu,” and type C causes a mild illness, not associated with epidemics. Type A is divided into different subtypes based on the chemical structure of the virus. Type B is not divided into subtypes. Both type A and type B are responsible for the seasonal outbreaks of flu. The flu usually arrives in the winter months. Influenza is a highly contagious disease. A person with flu is contagious for up to 7 days after the onset of the illness, although the virus can be detected in the secretions up to 24 hours before the onset of symptoms. Thus, an individual can transmit the virus one day before symptoms begin. Children can pass the virus for longer than 7 days. The virus is spread when you either inhale infected droplets in the air (spread when an infected person coughs or sneezes) or when you come in direct contact with an infected person’s secretions (for example, by kissing, sharing of handkerchiefs and other items, and through use of objects such as spoons and forks). Touching smooth surfaces, such as doorknobs, handles, and telephones, are other ways to transfer the virus to your hands, which may then contact the nose or mouth where the virus gets absorbed. You are at greatest risk of getting infected in highly populated areas, such as in crowded living conditions and in schools. Influenza symptoms start 24 to 48 hours after infection and cam begin suddenly. Symptoms may include:
Chills are often the first indication of influenza. Fever is common during the first few days. Many people feel sufficiently ill to remain in bed for days. They have aches and pains, most pronounced in the back and legs. Headache is often severe. Most symptoms subside after 2 or 3 days. However, fever sometimes lasts up to 5 days. Cough may persist for 10 days or longer. Weakness and fatigue may persist for several days or occasionally for weeks. In most persons who are otherwise healthy, influenza fully resolves within 7 to 10 days. Complications of flu can include bacterial pneumonia, bronchitis, dehydration, and worsening of chronic medical conditions, such as congestive heart failure, asthma, or diabetes. Children may get sinus problems and ear infections. Because most people are familiar with the symptoms of influenza, and because flu occurs in epidemics, the illness is often correctly diagnosed by the person who has it or by family members. The severity of the illness and the presence of a high fever and body aches help distinguish flu from a cold. Tests on samples of blood or respiratory secretions can identify the influenza virus. Health care providers rarely use laboratory tests to identify the virus during an epidemic. If you have mild illness and are not at high-risk, take these steps:
There are four prescription drugs available to reduce the severity and duration of the illness: Amantadine (Symmetrel) and rimantadine (Flumadine) (active against influenza A only); oseltamivir (Tamiflu) and zanamivir (Relenza). These drugs work only if taken in the first day or two of illness and only if the illness is actually influenza. They can decrease the duration of the disease by 1 day if used within this early time period. They are usually given for a period of about 5-7 days. If a secondary bacterial infection develops, antibiotics are added. Never give aspirin to children or teenagers who have flu-like symptoms – and particularly fever – without first speaking to your doctor. Giving aspirin to children and teenagers who have influenza can cause a rare but serious illness called Reye syndrome. Children or teenagers with the flu should take medicines that contain no aspirin to relieve flu symptoms. Who is at high risk for getting the flu? There are various groups who are more at risk during influenza epidemics. High risk groups include:
Flu vaccine A yearly flu vaccine is recommended for those people in high-risk categories. The vaccine is also recommended for people who work with (or live with) others at high risk. There are currently two vaccine options, the flu shot and the nasal spray vaccine. The shot gives more reliable protection and the spray is recommended only for non-high risk groups. The best tool for preventing the flu is the flu vaccine, and the best time to get a flu vaccine is from early October to mid-November. The vaccine can also be given at any point during the flu season, even if the virus has already begun to spread in your community. You need a flu vaccine every year because the virus is constantly changing and new vaccines are developed annually to protect against new strains. Who Should Not Be Vaccinated Some people should not be vaccinated without first consulting a doctor:
Antiviral medications Although the flu vaccine is the best way to prevent getting the flu,
three antiviral medicines also are available by prescription that will
help prevent flu infection. Antiviral medications are not a substitute
for vaccination, although doctor may prescribe them for people who cannot
or have not taken the flu shot.
Your health care provider can help you decide which medicine is best for you.
Price-RX.com offers you price comparison of the following Anti-Influenza drugs
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