Influenza

Question 1

Definition

Answer 1

An acute respiratory illness caused by RNA viruses.

Question 2

Name the types

Answer 2

influenza A - frequent and very virulent. Causes pandemics and epidemics

B - co-circulates with A but causes less severe symptoms

C - mild or asymptomatic

Question 3

Route of transmission

Answer 3

Droplets and aerosols

Question 4

Presentation

Answer 4

Fever
Non-productive cough
Myalgia
Headache
Malaise
Sore throat
Coryza

Question 5

Investigations

Answer 5

• Diagnosis generally made on clinical features and when its seasonal
• can be confirmed by a rapid PCR

Question 6

Management

Answer 6

• largely supportive (fluids, paracetamol, oxygen, rest)

Antivirals are prescribed when:
- influenza is circulating in the community
- person is in at at risk group (over 65, under 6mths, pregnancy, immunosupression)

1st line antiviral is oseltamivir

Question 7

Differentials

Answer 7

Common cold - more nasal problems

RSV infection

Parainfluenza cirus

Strep pharyngitis

Chest infection (CAP or bronchitis)