Influenza Flashcards
How does the influenza virus work
single stranded RNA genome
H- antigen helps binding and entry into tracheobronchial epithelial cells
N-antigen helps virus to escape
typically occurs in winter time
What is influenza
acute resp tract infection caused by seasonal influenza A/B virus
What are key diagnostic factors of influenza
fever, malaise, myalgia
cough
sore throat
unvaccinated
winter
cervical lymphadenopathy
What are risk factors for influenza
age >65 or 6 months to 5 years
CKD
Chronic resp condition
pregnancy
diabetes
immunocompromised
healthcare workers
What investigations are required for influenza
clinical diagnosis
can do viral culture - takes few days
How is influenza managed
bed rest
antipyretics
simple analgesia
consider antiviral therapy in high risk groups , only effective in first 48 hrs from onset of symptoms
if hospitalised – then antiviral therapy
