How long does the flu typically last. What are the common symptoms and their progression. When should you seek medical attention for flu complications. How can you effectively manage flu symptoms at home.

The Typical Duration of Influenza: What to Expect

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a viral infection that can significantly impact a person’s daily life. Many people wonder about the typical duration of this illness. Generally, flu symptoms appear within a few days of infection and peak between days 2 and 4. Most individuals start feeling better after 5-7 days, though in some cases, symptoms may persist longer.

Is there a standard timeline for flu recovery? While the average duration is about a week, it’s important to note that individual experiences can vary. Some people may recover more quickly, while others might experience lingering symptoms, particularly a cough that can last for several weeks.

• Symptoms typically appear 1-4 days after infection
• Peak symptoms usually occur between days 2-4
• Most people feel better after 5-7 days
• A cough may persist for up to 8 weeks in some cases

Recognizing Flu Symptoms: A Day-by-Day Breakdown

Understanding the progression of flu symptoms can help individuals better manage their illness and know when to seek medical attention. Unlike the common cold, which tends to develop gradually, flu symptoms often appear suddenly and can be quite severe.

Day 1-2: Onset of Symptoms

The initial days of the flu are often characterized by:

• Sudden onset of high fever (often appearing before other symptoms)
• Chills
• Muscle aches
• Headache
• Extreme fatigue

Days 2-4: Peak Symptoms

During this period, symptoms typically intensify and may include:

• Persistent high fever
• Dry cough
• Sore throat
• Possible vomiting
• Congestion

Days 5-7: Gradual Improvement

For many, this is when symptoms begin to subside. However, fatigue and weakness may linger.

Factors Influencing Flu Duration and Severity

Why do some people recover from the flu faster than others? Several factors can influence the duration and severity of flu symptoms:

1. Age: Infants, young children, and older adults may experience longer-lasting symptoms.
2. Overall health: Those with underlying health conditions or weakened immune systems may have a more prolonged illness.
3. Vaccination status: While not a guarantee, flu shots can reduce symptom severity and duration.
4. Timely treatment: Early use of antiviral medications can shorten the illness.

Do flu vaccines impact symptom duration? Yes, individuals who receive flu shots and still contract the virus often experience less severe symptoms that resolve more quickly compared to unvaccinated individuals.

When to Seek Medical Attention for Flu Symptoms

While most cases of flu can be managed at home, certain situations warrant medical attention. When should you consult a healthcare provider for flu symptoms?

• If symptoms persist or worsen after 7 days
• If you experience difficulty breathing or chest pain
• If you have a fever above 104°F (40°C)
• If you develop new symptoms after initial improvement

Are there specific flu complications to watch out for? Yes, certain complications can be serious and require immediate medical attention:

• Pneumonia
• Myocarditis (inflammation of the heart)
• Encephalitis (inflammation of the brain)
• Myositis (inflammation of the muscles)
• Multi-organ failure

Effective Home Remedies and Treatments for Flu Symptoms

While waiting for the flu to run its course, there are several ways to manage symptoms and promote recovery at home. What are some effective strategies for coping with flu symptoms?

1. Rest: Allow your body time to fight the infection by getting plenty of sleep.
2. Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration, especially if you have a fever.
3. Over-the-counter medications: Use acetaminophen or ibuprofen to reduce fever and alleviate pain.
4. Humidifiers: Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air and ease congestion.
5. Warm compresses: Apply warm, damp washcloths to sinuses to relieve pressure.

Can natural remedies help alleviate flu symptoms? While not scientifically proven, some people find relief from natural remedies such as:

• Honey for sore throat
• Ginger tea for nausea
• Chicken soup for overall comfort
• Vitamin C supplements for immune support

The Role of Antiviral Medications in Flu Treatment

Antiviral medications can play a crucial role in treating the flu, especially when administered early in the course of the illness. How do antiviral drugs impact flu duration and severity?

Antiviral medications like oseltamivir (Tamiflu) can shorten the duration of flu symptoms by 1-2 days if taken within 48 hours of symptom onset. They may also reduce the risk of complications, particularly in high-risk individuals.

Benefits of Antiviral Medications:

• Shortened duration of illness
• Reduced severity of symptoms
• Decreased risk of serious complications
• Potential to prevent flu in exposed individuals

Are there any side effects associated with antiviral flu medications? While generally well-tolerated, some people may experience side effects such as nausea, vomiting, or headaches. It’s important to discuss the potential risks and benefits with a healthcare provider before starting any antiviral treatment.

Preventing the Spread of Flu: Best Practices

Preventing the spread of flu is crucial for public health. What measures can individuals take to reduce the transmission of the virus?

1. Get vaccinated annually
2. Practice good hand hygiene
3. Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
4. Stay home when sick
5. Avoid close contact with infected individuals

How long should you stay home after having the flu? It’s recommended to stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever breaks without the use of fever-reducing medications. This helps prevent spreading the virus to others.

Flu Prevention in High-Risk Groups

Some individuals are at higher risk for flu complications and should take extra precautions:

• Adults 65 years and older
• Pregnant women
• Young children
• People with chronic health conditions
• Healthcare workers

These groups should prioritize annual flu vaccinations and seek prompt medical attention if flu symptoms develop.

Long-Term Effects of Influenza: What to Watch For

While most people recover fully from the flu within a few weeks, some individuals may experience lingering effects. What are some potential long-term consequences of a severe flu infection?

• Persistent fatigue
• Weakened immune system
• Increased susceptibility to secondary infections
• Exacerbation of existing chronic conditions

Can the flu lead to long-term respiratory issues? In some cases, particularly severe flu infections can cause lasting damage to the lungs, potentially leading to chronic respiratory problems. This underscores the importance of proper flu management and prevention.

Post-Flu Syndrome

Some individuals may experience what’s known as post-flu syndrome, characterized by:

• Prolonged fatigue
• Weakness
• Depression
• Sleep disturbances

If these symptoms persist for weeks or months after the initial flu infection, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider for proper evaluation and management.

Understanding the typical duration, symptoms, and potential complications of influenza can help individuals better manage their health during flu season. By recognizing when to seek medical attention, implementing effective home care strategies, and taking preventive measures, we can mitigate the impact of this common yet potentially serious viral infection. Remember, annual vaccination remains one of the most effective tools in preventing flu and reducing its severity, should infection occur.

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.

90,000 10 questions on how to properly treat SARS and influenza. The doctor explained everything

. How to stay in bed, what you can drink and much more

Updated January 11, 2023, 17:23

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In late autumn and early winter, a record surge in the incidence of influenza and SARS was recorded in Russia. Rospotrebnadzor told RBC that the incidence of influenza has increased 11 times in Russia compared to 2021. And this despite the fact that more than 74 million Russians have been vaccinated against influenza.

RBC Life turned to Irina Anatolyevna Leneva, Head of the Laboratory of Experimental Virology, Virology Department, for comments. O.G. Andzhaparidze Federal State Budgetary Scientific Institution “NIIVS them. I.I. Mechnikov, as well as to other specialized specialists. Doctors and scientists explained how to behave at the first symptoms and gave some important tips that will help you recover faster.

1. What is the first thing to do if you feel sick?

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At the first symptoms of the disease, everything must be done to prevent its further development. When viruses attack our body, it certainly needs support. And this is not only good rest, good nutrition and plenty of fluids, but also the timely intake of antiviral drugs with a wide spectrum of action and good tolerance.

It is important to start taking antivirals at the first symptoms of the disease. When choosing antiviral agents, preference should be given to drugs with a high safety profile, proven efficacy, as well as a wide range of antiviral activity, which include Arbidol (active ingredient Umifenovir).

Its effectiveness has been confirmed by clinical and preclinical studies. It has been proven that the drug molecules change the structure of the surface protein of the virus, reducing its ability to bind and penetrate into human cells, thus blocking its further reproduction.

2. What are the most dangerous symptoms in the initial stage?

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With viral infections, the incubation period is very short and averages 48 hours from infection to the very first manifestations. Usually the disease begins suddenly. Viruses differ from each other in their aggressiveness and exceptionally high reproduction rate, therefore, in a matter of hours after infection, the virus leads to deep lesions of the respiratory mucosa, opening up opportunities for bacteria to penetrate into it.

Almost always, after infection, catarrhal symptoms and signs of intoxication appear – such as fever up to 40 ° C, headache in the eye area, pain in the muscles, joints and lower back. The most dangerous can be nausea, vomiting and nosebleeds.

Also, when suffering from viral infections, existing chronic diseases are exacerbated, due to which the following are possible:

– pulmonary complications: pneumonia, bronchitis;

– complications from the upper respiratory tract and ENT organs: otitis media, sinusitis, rhinitis, tracheitis;

– complications from the cardiovascular system: myocarditis, pericarditis;

– complications from the nervous system: meningitis, meningoencephalitis, encephalitis, neuralgia, polyradiculoneuritis.

3. Bed rest: how to observe it and what not to do?

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It is very important to observe bed rest during the first three days of illness, as the load on the cardiovascular and immune systems increases. During this period, the body needs strength to fight the virus, so optimal conditions should be created to maintain the immune system. Physical and mental stress is contraindicated, including prolonged TV viewing and the use of gadgets.

4. Do I need to change my diet due to illness?

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In case of viral infections, the usual menu needs to be changed. Since a weakened body at this time requires a careful attitude, it is temporarily worth giving up heavy dishes of meat, fish and everything sweet. Never eat fast food when you are sick. Proper nutrition can significantly affect a person’s recovery: if you eat light and wholesome food, the disease will recede sooner, if you eat improperly, the body’s condition can only worsen.

It is necessary to increase the amount of protein, vitamins, macro- and microelements and reduce the proportion of fatty foods, completely eliminate fried foods.

5. What should you drink when you are sick and how much?

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“Drink more fluids” is the most common recommendation of doctors for SARS. And not in vain, since our body loses water every second: when breathing, water evaporates through the skin, excreted in urine, sweat and tears. If body temperature rises by at least 1 °C, then fluid loss increases by 10%. At a body temperature of 40 ° C, a person excretes almost twice as much water as usual. It is especially important to give water to sick children: from high fever and dehydration, they often start convulsions, and the child loses consciousness.

By drinking plenty of fluids, we help the body eliminate harmful toxins faster and relieve painful symptoms. Drinking should be varied. First of all, it is ordinary boiled water, non-carbonated mineral water or water with lemon. Compotes, fruit drinks, various juices, herbal teas, broth, ginger drinks are good. Citrus juices rich in vitamin C are also useful. However, you should not get carried away with them if your throat hurts badly: the acid irritates the mucous membrane, and the pain may intensify. It is also important to know that citrus fruits often cause allergies.

With regard to milk, it is not recommended to consume it in large quantities. In adults, the ability to absorb milk sugar (lactose) is often reduced, so indigestion can occur. At very high temperatures, the milk coagulates in the body, resulting in vomiting. Alcohol, contrary to popular belief, is contraindicated. It reduces the immune defense, which makes the disease last longer.

The main recommendation for drinks for influenza concerns temperature: any drink should be at body temperature, i.e. around 37-39°C.

6. Is it necessary to ventilate the room and how to do it correctly?

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All areas of the home should be thoroughly ventilated, both the sick room and common areas. Viruses do not like the movement of air masses, bacteria and viruses die in cold air, so ventilation is detrimental to viruses. For the time of airing the room where the patient is located, he must be transferred to another room. If this is not possible, it is necessary to cover it well with the head and reduce the ventilation interval. The optimal time for airing the room is 10-15 minutes.

7. Can I take a bath and shower when I’m sick?

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It is necessary to maintain hygiene during any illness, especially since a person sweats at a high temperature, which means that there is a lot of biological material on the body for bacteria to multiply. Therefore, it is very important to wash off all the dirt from the body. You can also wash your hair. The only thing to remember is that after a shower, dry yourself well with a towel and avoid drafts.

Taking a bath during a fever is not recommended for several reasons.

During a stay in a warm bath, the load on the heart and blood vessels increases. A patient with an elevated own temperature feels chills, he wants to warm himself. To warm up in the bath, you have to make the water temperature at least a degree higher than body temperature. With hyperthermia at 38 ° C, a person intuitively wants to make the water warmer: from 38. 5 to 39 ° C, which will further expand blood vessels, speed up blood flow and increase heart rate. For a person at risk, this can result in a stroke or a dangerous surge in blood pressure.

A cool bath, which patients sometimes take to lower their own temperature, can have the opposite effect: the vessels, on contact with cool water, will begin to narrow, which means that they will not be able to give off the heat produced in excess by the body. As a result, the temperature of the internal organs will only rise.

The most important thing during the period of illness is to keep the body in dry heat. Therefore, after forced water procedures, be sure to dry yourself thoroughly, paying special attention to the auricles, and put on warm, dry, clean clothes.

8. What temperature can be brought down, and at what temperature is it better not to drink antipyretics?

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Most viruses and bacteria cannot live long at high temperatures and die because of this. At a temperature of 37.5 ° C, the virus multiplies more slowly, and at 38.5 ° C it dies altogether. Thus, if the thermometer value is equal to or less than 38.5 ° C, antipyretics are not indicated. The exception is when a patient has a febrile seizure after 37.5 °C.

Reduce the temperature regardless of the mark necessary: ​​

– people with disorders of the central nervous system;

– children with a history of febrile seizures;

– patients with epilepsy.

Everyone else with an intact central nervous system should be treated with medication to bring down the temperature if it rises to 39 ° C. From this mark begins a dangerous zone of values ​​that can cause irreparable damage to the brain. Protein at temperatures above 39°C begins to decay, which means that brain cells are irreversibly destroyed.

9. How do antivirals work? Can you tell on the example of “Arbidol”?

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Antivirals are a class of medicines used to treat viral infections. Most antivirals target specific viruses, while broad-spectrum antivirals are effective against a wide range of viruses. “Arbidol” acts in the early stages of viral reproduction and inhibits the fusion of the viral lipid membrane with intracellular membranes, preventing the penetration of the virus into the cell.

The drug has been shown to be effective not only against influenza A and B viruses, including seasonal and highly pathogenic subtypes, but also against a number of other ARVI pathogens (adenovirus, RS-virus, coronavirus, and others).

The drug acts directly on viruses and does not affect human immunity, its timely intake can save the patient from possible complications in the further development of the disease. Efficiency has been confirmed in numerous experimental studies in vitro in cell cultures and in vivo in animals performed in leading scientific centers in Russia, independent laboratories in the USA, Great Britain, Australia, France, China and other countries.

10. Can antivirals be taken without a doctor’s recommendation?

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Viral infections are fast infections, they develop rapidly in the human body. Therefore, time is our main ally. But only if we start treatment as early as possible. Otherwise, time becomes the enemy.

In Russia, antiviral drugs are classified as over-the-counter drugs, but you should strictly follow the instructions in the instructions and follow the course of administration. For example, “Arbidol” begins to act within an hour and a half after administration and is well tolerated by patients. What is very important, the breadth of the antiviral spectrum of “Arbidol” in relation to various pathogens of SARS allows us to consider it as a drug, the treatment of which can be started without preliminary diagnosis.

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influenza symptoms in adults and children

9000 2 05 December 2022
21:28

Daria Okuneva

After the pandemic, the world is conquered by tridemia, warn doctors in the Old and New Worlds. Three viruses at once – the already familiar “corona”, influenza and syncytial virus – affect millions of people. Doctors predict the worst season of respiratory infections in the last five years due to the widespread cancellation of the mask regime and the return of travel to pre-pandemic levels. All three of the current illnesses resolve with a sharp rise in temperature and weakness, but the diagnosis is easy to make.

Against this backdrop, French Health Minister François Bron assured that “his hand will not waver if a decision is made on the mandatory wearing of masks.” While this is not the case, the authorities are convincing that it is not too late to get vaccinated against the flu. The current flu is named “Australian” after the continent where the strain was first isolated. Doctors warn that fever can last up to 5 days. The temperature can and should be brought down with age-appropriate drugs.

Therefore, doctors recommend especially vulnerable categories of citizens – the elderly and families with newborn children – to refrain from traveling or visiting large shopping centers, although, of course, there will be many temptations in the near future, given the New Year holidays.

Russian doctors also urge you to wash your hands and rinse your nose if you have to go to a public place. They note that after the current strain of influenza “A” the likelihood of pulmonary complications is very high. And the excess of the epidemic threshold is associated with the so-called “immune debt” after covid, because due to restrictions, the immune system did not receive the usual load for two years.

We are on the verge of an epidemic. This time the flu. Over the past week, the incidence has increased by almost a quarter. There are already queues for sick leave.

An ambulance in Yekaterinburg registers a sharp increase in the number of calls. The operators – again one call after another.

Influenza symptoms appear abruptly: the patient can even name the hour when he suddenly felt unwell. And this season is especially difficult – high fever, severe weakness, muscle pain. Out of habit – for two years the flu bypassed the stern one.

“During this time, we have practically not developed natural immunity. And now we have all become more vulnerable to respiratory infections,” says Dmitry Lioznov, director of the Research Institute of Influenza.

In addition, among the influenza strains now dominates h2N1 – swine or California flu, which in 2009 claimed more than 200 thousand lives across the planet. Now it has weakened, but still often causes viral pneumonia. And it can give severe complications to the nervous system, including meningitis.

“It tends to cause damage to the lower respiratory tract, leading to the development of viral pneumonia – this is its significant similarity with covid. Both pneumonia and lung distress syndrome – all this can be with this virus,” emphasized Natalya Pshenichnaya, Deputy Director for clinical and analytical work of the Central Research Institute of Epidemiology of Rospotrebnadzor.

Older people, overweight patients and chronically ill patients are most at risk. But not only. “It was noticed that young, adult working people and pregnant women are more involved in the epidemiological process,” said Elena Burtseva, head of the laboratory of influenza etiology and epidemiology of the Federal State Budgetary Institution National Research Center for Epidemiology and Epidemiology. N. F. Gamalei of the Ministry of Health of Russia.

The severe course of influenza is also typical for children under two years of age who encounter a dangerous pathogen for the first time. They definitely need medical supervision to distinguish influenza not only from covid, but also from bacterial infections – whooping cough and parapertussis. This year they are also actively circulating in children’s groups.

Specific treatment for each infection. But pharmacies have all the necessary drugs, including drugs based on oseltamivir, which is considered the most effective for influenza. Well, the preventive measures are still the same – doctors again recommend masks in crowded places. And again they are reminded of vaccinations. Influenza vaccines are available in all polyclinics, there are four types. And a separate vaccine for pregnant women. But if you get vaccinated, then as soon as possible. Immunity will be developed for at least two weeks, and the incidence is growing every day.