Influenza

What is Influenza (flu)?

·        Influenza is an acute, contagious respiratory infection caused by influenza viruses that circulate in all parts of the world, resulting in a year-round disease burden. These viruses infect the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs, and can cause a range of illnesses that vary in severity.

·        Although most people recover from the fever and other symptoms within a week without medical attention, severe cases of influenza require hospitalization, and in some instances, the illness can be fatal. This is especially true for high-risk groups.

·         High-risk groups include;

1.     People aged 65 years and older

2.     Children younger than 2 years

3.     Pregnant women

4.     People with chronic medical conditions,

i.e.  asthma, diabetes, heart disease (excluding high blood pressure), neurological diseases,

5.     Those with disorders that can compromise respiratory function e.g spinal cord injuries, seizure disorders 

6.     People with weakened immune systems,

i.e., those undergoing cancer treatment or taking immunosuppressive medications or HIV

·        However, it is important to note that anyone can get the flu and experience severe symptoms, even if they are not considered to be in a high-risk group.

What is the current status of influenza in Sri Lanka?

·        Being a tropical country in Sri Lanka, influenza can be seen throughout the year. However, there are two main peaks when there is a higher number of cases, which is from May to July and from November to January. Depending on the season, there may be different types of influenza viruses causing the illness.

How does influenza spread from one person to another?

·        The virus is typically transmitted through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, or sneezes. These droplets can then be inhaled by someone nearby or picked up by touching a surface contaminated with the virus (i.e., toys, doorknobs) and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes.

When is an ill person most likely to spread the influenza virus to another?

·        Healthy adults may be able to infect others starting one day before the symptoms appear and up to a week after getting sick. However, some individuals with weaker immune systems or children may remain contagious for a longer period.

When do the symptoms of influenza typically begin after a person is infected?

The time it takes for symptoms to appear after a person is infected with the flu virus is typically 2 days, but it can vary from 1 to 4 days.

What are the symptoms of influenza?

Flu symptoms develop rapidly and may include:

·        Fever

·        Cough

·        Sore throat

·        Runny or congested nose

·        Muscle or body aches

·        Headaches

·        Fatigue and feeling unwell

·        Some people may experience vomiting and diarrhea, more commonly in children than adults.

Diagnosing influenza

·        It can be challenging to differentiate between the flu and other respiratory illnesses solely based on symptoms.

·        However, there are diagnostic laboratory tests that can identify influenza.

Treatment of influenza

When treating influenza patients, doctors consider the severity of their illness and their risk factors and decide on the management.

·        Patients with severe or worsening illness are to be admitted to the hospital.

·        All pregnant women with symptoms of influenza will be referred to specialist care.

·        High-risk individuals with mild illness may receive home care but will be evaluated within 48 hours and request to return if symptoms worsen.

·        All other patients need follow-up evaluation within 72 hours if they fail to improve.

1.      When is it necessary to seek immediate medical attention?

It is crucial to seek immediate medical attention if symptoms persist, worsen, or if any of the following symptoms appear.

For adults;

- Difficulty in breathing

- Continuous vomiting

- Pain or pressure in the chest or stomach

- Vertigo

- Dizziness or fainting

- Recurrence of fever and severe cough after recovery of symptom

For children;

- Rapid breathing or difficulty in breathing

- Bluish or gray skin

- Difficulty or reduced fluids intake

- Decrease in the amount of urine passed or decreased tears when crying

- Continuous vomiting

- Decline in response

- Restless behaviour

- Recurrence of fever and severe cough after recovery of symptom

How to reduce the risk of getting influenza

·        Wash hands frequently with soap and water

·        Avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth

·        Cover nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing with tissue or handkerchief

·        Or cover mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing by lifting the arm up and covering the nose and mouth with the inner surface of the arm or forearm

·        Avoid close contact with sick individuals

·        Stay home if sick

·        Avoid crowded places during outbreaks

·        Consider wearing a face mask in crowded public places, especially during flu season.

·        Follow public health guidelines during outbreaks