How long does the flu typically last. What are the common symptoms and their progression. When should you seek medical attention for flu symptoms. How can you speed up recovery from influenza.

The Typical Duration of Influenza

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a viral infection that affects millions of people worldwide each year. One of the most pressing questions for those who contract the virus is: how long will it last? The duration of the flu can vary from person to person, but there is a general timeline that most cases follow.

For the majority of healthy individuals, flu symptoms typically last between 3 to 7 days. However, it’s important to note that some people may experience lingering effects for up to two weeks, particularly feelings of fatigue or weakness. In some cases, a persistent cough may continue for several weeks after other symptoms have resolved.

Factors Affecting Flu Duration

• Age: Older adults and young children may experience longer-lasting symptoms
• Overall health: Those with pre-existing conditions might have a prolonged recovery
• Vaccination status: Vaccinated individuals often experience milder symptoms and shorter durations
• Timely treatment: Early use of antiviral medications can shorten the course of the illness

It’s worth noting that while the acute phase of the flu may last about a week, full recovery to pre-illness energy levels can take up to a month for some individuals.

The Flu Symptom Timeline: Day-by-Day Breakdown

Understanding the typical progression of flu symptoms can help individuals better manage their illness and know what to expect. Here’s a general timeline of how flu symptoms often unfold:

Day 1-2: Sudden Onset

Unlike the common cold, which tends to develop gradually, flu symptoms often appear abruptly. Within hours, an individual can go from feeling fine to experiencing:

• High fever (often the first sign)
• Chills and body aches
• Fatigue and weakness
• Headache

Day 2-4: Peak Intensity

During this period, symptoms typically reach their peak intensity. Additional symptoms may develop, including:

• Dry cough
• Sore throat
• Nasal congestion
• Possible gastrointestinal symptoms (more common in children)

Day 5-7: Gradual Improvement

For many, this is when symptoms begin to subside. Fever often breaks, and energy levels start to improve. However, fatigue and cough may persist.

Beyond Day 7

Most people feel significantly better by this point, though some may still experience lingering symptoms, particularly fatigue and a residual cough.

Is this timeline the same for everyone? No, individual experiences can vary. Factors such as age, overall health, and the strain of influenza can all influence the duration and severity of symptoms.

Recognizing Severe Flu Symptoms: When to Seek Medical Attention

While most cases of the flu can be managed at home, certain symptoms warrant immediate medical attention. It’s crucial to recognize these signs to prevent potential complications.

Emergency Warning Signs in Adults

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Persistent pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
• Persistent dizziness, confusion, or inability to arouse
• Seizures
• Severe muscle pain
• Not urinating
• Severe weakness or unsteadiness
• Fever or cough that improve but then return or worsen
• Worsening of chronic medical conditions

Emergency Warning Signs in Children

• Fast breathing or trouble breathing
• Bluish lips or face
• Ribs pulling in with each breath
• Chest pain
• Severe muscle pain (child refuses to walk)
• Dehydration (no urine for 8 hours, dry mouth, no tears when crying)
• Not alert or interacting when awake
• Seizures
• Fever above 104°F
• In children less than 12 weeks, any fever
• Fever or cough that improve but then return or worsen
• Worsening of chronic medical conditions

When should you seek medical attention for flu symptoms? If you or a loved one experience any of the above symptoms, it’s crucial to seek immediate medical care. Additionally, individuals at high risk for complications, such as pregnant women, people over 65, and those with chronic medical conditions, should contact their healthcare provider at the first sign of flu symptoms.

Effective Treatments and Home Remedies for the Flu

While there’s no cure for the flu, several treatments can help alleviate symptoms and potentially shorten the duration of the illness. Combining medical interventions with home remedies can provide relief and support recovery.

Antiviral Medications

Antiviral drugs are the most effective medical treatment for influenza. These prescription medications work best when started within 48 hours of symptom onset. Common antivirals include:

• Oseltamivir (Tamiflu)
• Zanamivir (Relenza)
• Peramivir (Rapivab)
• Baloxavir marboxil (Xofluza)

How do antiviral medications help with the flu? These drugs can shorten the duration of the flu by 1-2 days, reduce the severity of symptoms, and lower the risk of serious complications, especially in high-risk individuals.

Over-the-Counter Medications

Various OTC medications can help manage specific flu symptoms:

• Acetaminophen or ibuprofen for fever and pain
• Decongestants for nasal congestion
• Cough suppressants for persistent cough
• Throat lozenges for sore throat

Home Remedies and Self-Care

In addition to medical treatments, several home remedies can support recovery:

• Rest: Allowing your body to recuperate is crucial
• Hydration: Drinking plenty of fluids helps prevent dehydration
• Humidifiers: Adding moisture to the air can ease congestion and coughing
• Warm compresses: These can alleviate sinus pressure and headaches
• Gargling with salt water: This can soothe a sore throat
• Honey: A natural cough suppressant, particularly effective for children over 1 year old

What’s the most important thing to remember when treating the flu at home? Rest and hydration are key. Your body needs energy to fight the virus, so prioritize sleep and ensure you’re drinking enough fluids.

Preventing the Spread of Influenza: Best Practices

Influenza is highly contagious, and preventing its spread is crucial for public health. Understanding how the virus transmits and implementing effective prevention strategies can help reduce the incidence of flu in communities.

How Flu Spreads

The flu virus primarily spreads through respiratory droplets when infected individuals cough, sneeze, or talk. It can also spread by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touching one’s mouth, nose, or eyes.

Effective Prevention Strategies

1. Annual Vaccination: The flu shot is the most effective way to prevent influenza. It’s recommended for everyone 6 months and older, with rare exceptions.
2. Hand Hygiene: Frequent handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds can significantly reduce the spread of the virus.
3. Respiratory Etiquette: Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing, and dispose of used tissues immediately.
4. Social Distancing: Maintain a distance from others, especially during flu season or if you’re feeling unwell.
5. Surface Cleaning: Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
6. Stay Home When Sick: If you have flu symptoms, stay home to avoid spreading the virus to others.

How long should you stay home with the flu? It’s recommended to stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever has gone down without the use of fever-reducing medications.

Long-Term Effects and Complications of Influenza

While most people recover fully from the flu within a few weeks, some individuals may experience long-term effects or develop serious complications. Understanding these potential outcomes is crucial for recognizing when additional medical intervention may be necessary.

Common Long-Term Effects

• Persistent fatigue
• Lingering cough
• Reduced lung function
• Weakened immune system

Serious Complications

In some cases, particularly in high-risk individuals, the flu can lead to severe complications:

• Pneumonia: A serious lung infection that can be life-threatening
• Myocarditis: Inflammation of the heart muscle
• Encephalitis: Inflammation of the brain
• Multiorgan failure: A life-threatening condition affecting multiple body systems
• Exacerbation of chronic medical conditions: Such as asthma or heart disease

Who is at higher risk for flu complications? Individuals at increased risk include:

• Adults 65 years and older
• Children younger than 5, especially those under 2
• Pregnant women and those up to two weeks postpartum
• People with chronic medical conditions (e.g., asthma, heart disease, diabetes)
• Individuals with weakened immune systems

Can the flu have lasting effects on overall health? While most people recover fully, severe cases of flu can potentially lead to long-term health issues, particularly in the respiratory and cardiovascular systems. This underscores the importance of prevention and prompt treatment.

The Role of Flu Vaccines in Mitigating Illness Severity and Duration

Flu vaccines play a crucial role in public health by reducing the incidence, severity, and duration of influenza infections. Understanding how these vaccines work and their benefits can encourage more widespread adoption of this preventive measure.

How Flu Vaccines Work

Flu vaccines stimulate the immune system to produce antibodies against specific strains of the influenza virus. These antibodies provide protection against infection or help reduce the severity of symptoms if infection occurs.

Benefits of Flu Vaccination

• Reduced risk of flu illness
• Decreased severity of symptoms if infection occurs
• Shorter duration of illness
• Lower risk of flu-related hospitalization and death
• Protection for vulnerable populations through community immunity

How effective are flu vaccines? Efficacy can vary from year to year depending on how well the vaccine matches circulating virus strains. On average, flu vaccination reduces the risk of illness by 40-60% when the vaccine is well-matched to circulating viruses.

Vaccine Types and Administration

Several types of flu vaccines are available, including:

• Inactivated influenza vaccine (IIV)
• Recombinant influenza vaccine (RIV)
• Live attenuated influenza vaccine (LAIV)

These vaccines are typically administered annually, as flu viruses constantly evolve, necessitating updated vaccine formulations each year.

When is the best time to get a flu shot? The CDC recommends getting vaccinated by the end of October, although vaccination later can still be beneficial as flu activity can continue into spring.

By understanding the flu’s timeline, recognizing severe symptoms, implementing effective treatments and preventive measures, and appreciating the role of vaccination, individuals can better navigate flu season and protect their health and the health of those around them. Remember, while the flu is a common illness, it should not be taken lightly, and proactive measures can significantly reduce its impact on individuals and communities.

How long does the flu last? Timeline and recovery

Symptoms of the flu generally appear within a few days of infection. They usually peak between days 2 and 4, and most people feel better after 5–7 days. However, symptoms can last longer in some cases, and a cough may persist for several weeks.

The flu can leave a person unable to work, perform household duties, or tend to children for several days. Some people develop severe symptoms and may need hospital care.

In this article, we discuss how long the flu usually lasts, a timeline of the common symptoms, and when to see a doctor for treatment.

For people who do not develop serious flu complications, symptoms usually last 3–7 days. Some people find that their symptoms get better and then worse again or that they are worse at certain times of the day, such as in the morning.

Although fever and the most severe symptoms typically resolve within a week, some people have low energy for up to 2 weeks, and it is possible to experience a cough for up to 8 weeks.

The flu shot reduces the risk of getting the flu but does not eliminate it. However, people who still get the flu after receiving a shot tend to have less severe symptoms that last for a shorter period.

Antiviral drugs, such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu), can also shorten the length of the flu and lower the risk of serious complications.

Infants and very young children, older adults, and people with respiratory diseases may have symptoms that last longer. These individuals are also more vulnerable to serious flu complications, such as pneumonia and breathing difficulties.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 200,000 people in the United States need to go to the hospital each year as a result of the flu.

Flu complications are unlikely to resolve on their own, and they can be a medical emergency. They may require a person to stay in the hospital. It can be weeks or even months before a person recovers from serious flu complications.

For more information and resources to help keep you and your loved ones healthy this flu season, visit our dedicated hub.

Was this helpful?

Unlike the cold and other viruses, which present gradually, flu symptoms tend to appear suddenly. Within a few hours, a person may transition from feeling fine to having a fever and other symptoms.

A high fever occurs more commonly with the flu than with a cold, and it often appears before other symptoms.

The most common symptoms of the flu include:

• high fever
• chills
• muscle aches
• a headache
• weakness and extreme exhaustion
• a dry cough
• a sore throat
• vomiting
• congestion

The symptoms tend to peak between days 2 and 4. By day 5, some people begin to feel better. A few feel well enough to return to work or school.

However, it is important to stay at home for 24 hours after a fever breaks. If the fever only goes away with anti-fever medication, remain at home.

By day 7, most people feel significantly better, although some are still sick. It is not unusual for the flu to last longer than a week, so slow healing is not necessarily a bad sign. However, if the symptoms continue to get worse after a week, it may be best to see a doctor.

The best and most effective treatment for the flu is an antiviral flu drug. Taking this drug within 2 days of getting sick may shorten the duration of the flu and help a person avoid complications.

Before taking any anti-flu medication, a person can weigh up the risks and benefits with a doctor. It is important to tell the doctor about any previous health problems or drug reactions because some people experience side effects when they take anti-flu drugs.

Antibiotics cannot treat the flu. The flu is a virus, and antibiotics only treat bacterial infections.

However, some people develop secondary infections because of the flu. Children are especially vulnerable to ear infections, but adults can get them too. If symptoms suddenly change or get worse, this could mean that there is a new infection, which could be viral or bacterial.

The following strategies can help speed up the healing process:

• Resting and staying in bed.
• Avoiding going to work, school, or anywhere else, as this can spread the flu.
• Drinking plenty of fluids. If fever or vomiting occurs, try drinking an electrolyte drink to prevent dehydration.
• Using over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
• Washing the hands frequently to avoid spreading the infection to other members of the household.

People should try to see a doctor within 24 to 48 hours after flu symptoms appear, as this is when antiviral treatments are most effective.

It is also important to see a doctor if symptoms do not improve after 7 days or new symptoms, such as ear pain, appear.

People should seek emergency medical treatment if:

• breathing becomes difficult or labored
• muscle pain is unbearable or severe enough to prevent walking
• a child develops a fever above 104°F
• when breathing, a child or infant makes loud sounds or pulls in the muscles around their ribs
• a person has seizures, loses consciousness, seems confused, or is unable to communicate effectively
• a baby under the age of 12 weeks develops a fever
• symptoms of chronic medical conditions get worse
• there is intense dizziness that does not go away after a few hours
• a person stops urinating or urinates very rarely
• symptoms get better but then return later and are worse

Most people who get the flu will have symptoms that last between 3 and 7 days. If they develop complications, they may be ill for longer.

Thousands of people die from the flu every year. Children, older adults, or people with compromised immune systems are much more vulnerable to flu complications. People should take the flu seriously by resting and avoiding public places until their symptoms disappear.

With rest and medical care, it is possible to recover even from serious complications. Anyone with severe flu symptoms should see a doctor. To reduce the risk of getting the flu again, a person can get the flu shot every year.

How long does the flu last? Timeline and recovery

Symptoms of the flu generally appear within a few days of infection. They usually peak between days 2 and 4, and most people feel better after 5–7 days. However, symptoms can last longer in some cases, and a cough may persist for several weeks.

The flu can leave a person unable to work, perform household duties, or tend to children for several days. Some people develop severe symptoms and may need hospital care.

In this article, we discuss how long the flu usually lasts, a timeline of the common symptoms, and when to see a doctor for treatment.

For people who do not develop serious flu complications, symptoms usually last 3–7 days. Some people find that their symptoms get better and then worse again or that they are worse at certain times of the day, such as in the morning.

Although fever and the most severe symptoms typically resolve within a week, some people have low energy for up to 2 weeks, and it is possible to experience a cough for up to 8 weeks.

The flu shot reduces the risk of getting the flu but does not eliminate it. However, people who still get the flu after receiving a shot tend to have less severe symptoms that last for a shorter period.

Antiviral drugs, such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu), can also shorten the length of the flu and lower the risk of serious complications.

Infants and very young children, older adults, and people with respiratory diseases may have symptoms that last longer. These individuals are also more vulnerable to serious flu complications, such as pneumonia and breathing difficulties.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 200,000 people in the United States need to go to the hospital each year as a result of the flu.

Flu complications are unlikely to resolve on their own, and they can be a medical emergency. They may require a person to stay in the hospital. It can be weeks or even months before a person recovers from serious flu complications.

For more information and resources to help keep you and your loved ones healthy this flu season, visit our dedicated hub.

Was this helpful?

Unlike the cold and other viruses, which present gradually, flu symptoms tend to appear suddenly. Within a few hours, a person may transition from feeling fine to having a fever and other symptoms.

A high fever occurs more commonly with the flu than with a cold, and it often appears before other symptoms.

The most common symptoms of the flu include:

• high fever
• chills
• muscle aches
• a headache
• weakness and extreme exhaustion
• a dry cough
• a sore throat
• vomiting
• congestion

The symptoms tend to peak between days 2 and 4. By day 5, some people begin to feel better. A few feel well enough to return to work or school.

However, it is important to stay at home for 24 hours after a fever breaks. If the fever only goes away with anti-fever medication, remain at home.

By day 7, most people feel significantly better, although some are still sick. It is not unusual for the flu to last longer than a week, so slow healing is not necessarily a bad sign. However, if the symptoms continue to get worse after a week, it may be best to see a doctor.

The best and most effective treatment for the flu is an antiviral flu drug. Taking this drug within 2 days of getting sick may shorten the duration of the flu and help a person avoid complications.

Before taking any anti-flu medication, a person can weigh up the risks and benefits with a doctor. It is important to tell the doctor about any previous health problems or drug reactions because some people experience side effects when they take anti-flu drugs.

Antibiotics cannot treat the flu. The flu is a virus, and antibiotics only treat bacterial infections.

However, some people develop secondary infections because of the flu. Children are especially vulnerable to ear infections, but adults can get them too. If symptoms suddenly change or get worse, this could mean that there is a new infection, which could be viral or bacterial.

The following strategies can help speed up the healing process:

• Resting and staying in bed.
• Avoiding going to work, school, or anywhere else, as this can spread the flu.
• Drinking plenty of fluids. If fever or vomiting occurs, try drinking an electrolyte drink to prevent dehydration.
• Using over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.
• Washing the hands frequently to avoid spreading the infection to other members of the household.

People should try to see a doctor within 24 to 48 hours after flu symptoms appear, as this is when antiviral treatments are most effective.

It is also important to see a doctor if symptoms do not improve after 7 days or new symptoms, such as ear pain, appear.

People should seek emergency medical treatment if:

• breathing becomes difficult or labored
• muscle pain is unbearable or severe enough to prevent walking
• a child develops a fever above 104°F
• when breathing, a child or infant makes loud sounds or pulls in the muscles around their ribs
• a person has seizures, loses consciousness, seems confused, or is unable to communicate effectively
• a baby under the age of 12 weeks develops a fever
• symptoms of chronic medical conditions get worse
• there is intense dizziness that does not go away after a few hours
• a person stops urinating or urinates very rarely
• symptoms get better but then return later and are worse

Most people who get the flu will have symptoms that last between 3 and 7 days. If they develop complications, they may be ill for longer.

Thousands of people die from the flu every year. Children, older adults, or people with compromised immune systems are much more vulnerable to flu complications. People should take the flu seriously by resting and avoiding public places until their symptoms disappear.

With rest and medical care, it is possible to recover even from serious complications. Anyone with severe flu symptoms should see a doctor. To reduce the risk of getting the flu again, a person can get the flu shot every year.

Acute respiratory viral infections and influenza – GBUZ “DLRC Krasnodar” Ministry of Health of the Republic of Kazakhstan

Acute respiratory viral infections and influenza

Acute respiratory (respiratory) viral infections (ARVI) – a group of diseases caused by viruses with similar transmission routes (mainly airborne, that is, through the air with particles of saliva) and clinical manifestations (cough, fever, sore throat, etc. .).

Influenza belongs to the ARBI group, but it is especially distinguished due to the pronounced tendency of this infection to spread with the development of epidemics. In addition, influenza is accompanied by more pronounced clinical
manifestations and with it a higher risk of complications. There is a subspecies of the H5N1 influenza virus that is transmitted from sick birds (ducks, chickens) to humans.

This type of flu is called “avian flu”.

SARS are the most common diseases, they account for 90% of all infections. In Russia, from 27 to 40 million people fall ill with ARVI every year.

ARVI viruses are excreted from the patient’s body with drops of saliva and sputum when breathing, talking, crying, coughing, sneezing. Viruses enter the body of a healthy person by inhaling infected particles or by sharing household items (dishes, towels). The highest probability of infection is in close contact and high crowding: in transport, in barracks, hospitals, educational institutions, nursing homes, etc. Susceptibility to respiratory infections is very high, but can be reduced with preventive measures (see below).

SARS are dangerous with complications, which, however, do not occur often. A typical complication of any SARS is pneumonia. Influenza, in addition, can be complicated by inflammation of the paranasal sinuses, middle ear (especially in children), respiratory distress syndrome (pulmonary edema), meningitis. Influenza is most dangerous for young children, the elderly, as well as for patients with HIV infection, diabetes mellitus and people with weakened immunity due to radiation or chemotherapy.

The disease begins with an increase in body temperature up to 38-40 ° C, which persists for 2-7 days. It should be remembered that a repeated increase in body temperature (that is, after its initial decrease) is not typical for 0PBI and may indicate either the development of complications or the presence of another disease. Another common symptom is a cough, usually dry. It is important to remember that a dry cough can persist after SARS for 1-2 weeks, which should not cause concern, provided that all other symptoms have disappeared and the patient’s health has returned to normal. Dry cough is gradually replaced by a cough with sputum. If the sputum becomes green, this does not necessarily indicate the development of complications: this color of sputum can be given by an admixture of discharge from the mucous membranes of the oral cavity, nose or bronchi. Among other symptoms of acute respiratory viral infections and flu, the most common are headache, muscle pain, sore throat, weakness, and poor appetite. A runny nose for influenza is not typical, but it is possible with other SARS.

Particular attention should be paid to symptoms that may indicate either the development of complications, or the presence of not SARS, but another disease that manifests similar symptoms.

Preservation of elevated body temperature (more than 37.5 ° C) for more than 7 days, as well as its repeated increase.

• Increased headache.

• Vomiting.

• Drowsiness or confusion.

• Stiff neck (inability to bend the head so that the chin touches the chest).

• Shortness of breath (difficulty breathing).

• Chest pain.

• Bloody sputum.

• Any rash.

• Intolerance to bright light.

If you experience any of these symptoms, contact your
doctor immediately!

Most often, the diagnosis is based on the identification of the symptoms discussed above. To identify complications of acute respiratory viral infections, a general blood and urine test, an x-ray of the chest or paranasal sinuses, and sometimes a bacteriological analysis of sputum may be required.

It is necessary to observe the home regimen (should not go to work, this is fraught with complications). Drinking should be plentiful to prevent dehydration in conditions of high body temperature.

Antipyretic drugs should be taken if body temperature is above 38. 5 °C or is not well tolerated. In other cases, there is no need for them, since a moderately elevated body temperature contributes to the formation of a good immune response. Of the antipyretic drugs, paracetamol or acetylsalicylic acid is most justified (the latter – only if the patient is over 16 years old, in no case should it be prescribed for young children with influenza!).

To relieve the symptoms of SARS, there are many medicines containing several components. As a rule, these are combinations of antipyretics, relieving nasal congestion, antitussives, antiallergics, and vitamins. Always read the instructions carefully: the composition of the drug may contain a component that is either intolerable to you or already taken in a sufficient dose (for example, paracetamol).

Many patients take all sorts of herbal infusions or other herbal remedies to relieve coughs. These agents may contribute to subjective improvement, but they do not reduce the duration of the disease. Let’s take multivitamins, but the consumption of ascorbic acid should not be excessive (no more than 50-100 mg 2-3 times a day for children and 50-100 mg 3-5 times a day for adults).

The following medicines are used to influence ARVI pathogens:

– Antiviral drugs that stop viruses from multiplying, such as rimantadine (it is only effective for influenza).

– Interferons (the main factor of antiviral protection in the body) and stimulators of the formation of interferons.

– Anti-influenza immunoglobulin (the drug is obtained from the blood of healthy people who have had the flu; thus, it contains ready-made antibodies). Immunoglobulin is administered to weakened people, as well as to patients with severe forms of influenza.

– Antibiotics are not used for the treatment of uncomplicated forms of SARS and influenza, since they do not affect viruses. The most important influenza prevention measure is vaccination, which is carried out much earlier than the expected epidemic, usually in October-November. The duration of the protective effect of the vaccine is one year, so it must be repeated annually. Vaccination is most indicated for the following population groups (however, in any case, you should consult with your doctor before conducting it).

– Elderly people (over 65).

– Patients with chronic bronchopulmonary diseases (especially with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease).

– Children of preschool and school age.

– Patients with a weakened immune system (with diabetes mellitus, HIV infection, removed spleen or receiving glucocorticoids and cytostatics).

– Patients with chronic heart failure, chronic kidney disease.

– Patients with frequent acute respiratory viral infections.

– Persons with a high probability of infection (military contingents, medical personnel, workers in the field of consumer services, transport, educational institutions).

There are practically no contraindications to modern generation vaccines obtained by genetic engineering.

During an influenza epidemic, it is too late to administer the vaccine. In this case, it is possible to use rimantadine, as well as oxolinic ointment in the nose. It is important to frequently ventilate the room where the patient is located, if possible, isolate him from other family members, and provide him with separate dishes. Caregivers should be in gauze 3-4-layer masks, and also use the above methods of prevention. Tempering procedures (rinsing the mouth and nose with cold water, walking barefoot on a cold floor, cold wiping, dousing, etc.) are important if they are carried out for a long time and systematically. You should not start hardening if a person is sick or in the process of recovery.

GBUZ “Center for Medical Prevention” of the Ministry of Health of the Krasnodar Territory

signs, symptoms, treatment and prevention

Influenza is a severe viral infection that affects men, women and children of all ages and nationalities. Influenza epidemics happen every year, usually during the cold season. In terms of the number of cases in the world, influenza and SARS rank first, the share in the structure of infectious diseases reaches 95%.

Influenza and SARS, gradually undermining health, reduce the average life expectancy of a person by several years. In severe cases of influenza, irreversible damage to the cardiovascular system, respiratory organs, and central nervous system often occurs, provoking heart and vascular diseases, pneumonia, tracheobronchitis, and meningoencephalitis.

Influenza collects the greatest victims among the elderly population groups suffering from chronic diseases.

The influenza virus is very easily transmitted:

• The most common route of transmission is airborne.
• It is also possible for household transmission, for example, through household items.

When coughing, sneezing, talking, particles of saliva, mucus, sputum with pathogenic microflora, including influenza viruses, are ejected from the nasopharynx of a patient or a virus carrier. An infected zone is formed around the patient with a maximum concentration of aerosol particles. The range of their scattering usually does not exceed 2 – 3 m.

What is SARS? How is it different from the flu?

The term “acute respiratory disease” (ARI) or “acute respiratory viral infection” (ARVI) covers a large number of diseases that are largely similar to each other. Their main similarity lies in the way of transmission (they enter the body along with inhaled air through the mouth and nasopharynx) and in a set of symptoms:

• The patient has a fever, sore throat, cough, chills, muscle pain and headache for several days.
• The most common symptom of respiratory illness is a runny nose; it is caused by a number of related viruses known as rhinoviruses.

With recovery, all these symptoms disappear and do not leave behind any traces.

In general, the causative agents of acute respiratory infections are transmitted from person to person through coughing or sneezing of the patient. Any person in close (approximately 1 meter) contact with another person with symptoms of SARS is at risk of exposure to potentially infectious inhaled droplets. Viruses can enter the body (in the eyes, nose or mouth) through the hands when in contact with an infected surface.

Personal hygiene can help prevent the spread of pathogens that cause respiratory infections.

Differences between COVID-19, colds and flu

As you know, the new coronavirus infection COVID-19 is transmitted mainly by airborne droplets. She is characterized by the presence of clinical symptoms of SARS (you can find a detailed educational program from Sevdzdrav at the link – https://sevdz.ru/mednavigator/profilaktika/koronavirus/).

Important! COVID-19 is sometimes asymptomatic, but this does not make the carrier of the virus any less contagious. Especially in such cases, people with chronic diseases suffer.

Visual infographics from Rospotrebnadzor:

Basic recommendations for the prevention of influenza and SARS for the population

It is especially important to observe preventive measures now – during the pandemic of a new coronavirus infection.

The self-isolation regime has been canceled, but the pandemic has not disappeared anywhere! We all need to think about our health and the health of those around us.

• Avoid close contact with people who appear unwell, show fever (temperature) and cough.
• Avoid crowded places or reduce time spent in crowded places.
• Avoid touching your mouth and nose.
• Observe hand hygiene – wash hands frequently with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially when touching mouth, nose.
• Increase the flow of fresh air into living quarters, open windows as often as possible.
• Use a mask when in contact with a sick person.
• Maintain a healthy lifestyle, including adequate sleep, eating “healthy” foods, and being physically active.

Preventive immunization of the population (vaccination) is the best prevention of influenza. In turn, the main danger of refusing to vaccinate is the possibility of getting the flu when in contact with a sick person. In addition, a person who has not been vaccinated is potentially dangerous to others, as he is a likely carrier of an infectious disease.

In detail: why vaccination is needed and where to get a flu shot in Sevastopol.

Recommendations for people with symptoms of SARS

• If you feel unwell, stay at home and follow the recommendations of the doctor, if possible, keep a distance (1 meter) from healthy people.
• Rest and drink plenty of fluids.
• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing with a handkerchief or other suitable material. Dispose of this material immediately after use or wash it. Wash your hands immediately after contact with secretions from the respiratory tract!
• Wear a mask if you are in the common area of ​​the house near other people.
• Tell your family and friends about the illness.

Important! Medical masks

Recommendations for the use of protective medical masks:

• The wearing of medical masks is mandatory for persons who have close contact with a sick patient.
• Carefully put on the mask so that it covers the mouth and nose, and tie it tightly so that there are as few gaps between the face and the mask as possible.
• Avoid touching the mask when using it.
• After touching a used mask, for example when removing it, wash your hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Replace the used mask with a new, clean, dry mask as soon as the used mask becomes damp (wet).
• Masks intended for single use should not be reused.
• Throw away disposable masks after each use and dispose of them immediately after removal.

Home care advice

• Isolate the patient from others by at least 1 meter from others.
• Cover your mouth and nose when caring for the sick using masks.
• Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after each contact with a sick person. Allocate separate towels for each family member.
• Other than the caregivers, the sick person should not be visited by other visitors.
• If possible, have only one adult in the home care for the sick person.
• Avoid being cared for by a pregnant woman.
• Constantly ventilate the room in which the patient is located.
• Keep the room clean with detergents.

Advice for Parents of Sick Children

• Seek medical attention if your child is sick.
• Leave a sick child at home unless he needs medical attention.