Influenza

Question 1

What is the primary source of prevention of the flu

Answer 1

Vaccination

Question 2

What are the two types of surface antigens of influenza A

Answer 2

Hemagglutinin
*16 serotypes
Neuraminidase
*9 serotypes

Question 3

Who can get the inactivated flu vaccine?

Answer 3

1. People 6 months and older
   *booster dose important for children less than 9 years of age if no previous vaccination

Question 4

What is the ADR of the inactivated vaccine

Answer 4

1. Injection site reactions

Question 5

What is the live attenuated vaccine for the flu

Answer 5

Flumist
1. Approved for Intranasal administration
2. 2-49 years old

Question 6

What are the advantages of the LAIV (flumist)

Answer 6

1. Easy administration
2. Potential induction of broad mucosal and systemic immune response

Question 7

What does the LAIV (flumist) contain

Answer 7

1. 2 strains of influenza A and 2 strains of influenza B
   *possible to contract flu virus, but symptoms are a lot less

Question 8

Can the LAIV (flumist) be given to immunocompromised patients

Answer 8

No

Question 9

What is the treatment of the flu and the MOA

Answer 9

1. Oseltamivir (tamiflu)
   *inhibits neuraminidase preventing release of the virus from infected cells decreasing viral replication

Question 10

When should oseltamivir be used

Answer 10

Within 48 hours of onset of illness (preferably 12 hours)
*use for 5 days
*NA inhibitors reduce the duration of illness by about 1 day