Influenza Flashcards
What is influenza?
A common viral infection of the respiratory tract causing seasonal winter outbreaks.
Influenza is highly contagious and can lead to significant morbidity and mortality.
What is the incubation period for influenza?
1-4 days.
This period can vary based on the individual and the strain of the virus.
How is influenza transmitted?
- respiratory droplets
- aerosolisation
- person-person contact
- contaminated surfaces
Understanding transmission is crucial for prevention strategies.
What are some risk factors for severe influenza?
- extremes of age
- immunocompromise
- comorbidities
- pregnancy
- healthcare workers
These groups are more vulnerable to complications from influenza.
What are common clinical features of influenza?
- fever
- lethargy and fatigue
- anorexia
- myalgia
- headache
- cough
- pharyngitis
- coryza
Symptoms can vary in intensity and duration.
What distinguishes flu from a cold?
- flu has abrupt onset
- fever is typical of flu, uncommon with colds
- in flu, people feel ‘wiped out’
These differences help in clinical diagnosis.
What is the main approach to managing influenza?
- supportive care
- antivirals
Supportive care includes rest, hydration, antipyretics, and analgesia.
What supportive care measures are recommended for influenza?
- rest
- hydration
- antipyretics
- analgesia
These measures help alleviate symptoms and support recovery.
What antivirals are used for influenza management?
- oseltamivir
- zanamivir
Antivirals are most effective when administered within 48 hours for high-risk or hospitalized patients.
What are potential complications of influenza?
- otitis media
- sinusitis
- bronchitis
- viral pneumonia
- secondary bacterial pneumonia
- respiratory failure
- ARDS
- febrile convulsions
- myocarditis
- guillain-barre syndrome
- encephalitis
These complications can lead to serious health issues, especially in high-risk populations.
What is the recommendation for influenza vaccination?
Annual flu vaccine.
Vaccination is crucial for preventing influenza and its complications.
Who should receive the annual flu vaccine?
- > 65 years
- children
- healthcare workers
- high-risk groups
These groups are prioritized for vaccination to enhance community immunity.
