Influenza

Question 1

What is influenza? How is it spread?

Answer 1

Acute respiratory virus
Spread through droplets in coughs/ sneezes

Question 2

List 8 symptoms of influenza

Answer 2

Fever > 38ºC
Myalgia
Lethargy
Headache
Rhinitis
Sore throat
Cough
D+V

Question 3

Describe the nature of influenza

Answer 3

Usually self-limiting in general pop
Sx resolve in 1-2w

Question 4

What are the subtypes of influenza?

Answer 4

A: more frequently + more virulent
B: less severe clinical illness
C: mild/ asymptomatic

Question 5

Which 3 criteria indicate that antivirals should be prescribed for influenza?

Answer 5

1) Patient in at-risk group or at risk of developing a serious complication
2) Circulating influenza nationally
3) Patient is able to start Tx within 48h from onset of Sx (36h for zanamivir)

Question 6

What antivirals can be used for influenza?

Answer 6

Oseltamivir
(2nd line Zanamivir)

Question 7

Which antiviral should be used in immunocompromised or those with renal impairment with influenza?

Answer 7

Zanamivir

Question 8

Which patients are considered to be at high risk of influenza?

Answer 8

Those with chronic resp, heart, kidney, liver, or neuro disease; DM; obesity or immunosuppressed.
>65s
Pregnant women (+ up to 2w post partum).
Babies < 6 months

Question 9

List 5 complications of influenza

Answer 9

Acute bronchitis.
Pneumonia.
Exacerbations of asthma + COPD
Otitis media.
Sinusitis.

Question 10

When should admission for influenza be considered?

Answer 10

Complication e.g. pneumonia occurs.
Person has a concomitant disease that may be affected by influenza (e.g. T1DM).
Suspicion of a serious illness other than influenza (e.g. meningitis).

Question 11

Describe conservative management advice for influenza

Answer 11

Drink adequate fluids to avoid dehydration.
Paracetamol or ibuprofen for symptomatic relief.
Rest if they feel fatigued.
Stay off work or school if they feel unable to attend