Influenza

Influenza is a viral respiratory illness caused by Influenza viruses, mainly classified into three types:

• Influenza A

• Influenza B

• Influenza C

Among these, types A and B are responsible for seasonal epidemics each year. Type A can also cause global pandemics as it infects both humans and animals, while type B affects humans only. Type C usually causes mild infections.

The virus spreads easily via airborne droplets released when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It can also be contracted by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes.

Symptoms tend to appear suddenly and are more intense compared to the common cold. These include high fever, chills, muscle aches, dry cough, and extreme fatigue. In severe cases, influenza can progress to pneumonia or worsen pre-existing health issues like asthma or heart disease.

• High fever (usually over 38°C)

• Dry cough

• Nasal congestion or runny nose

• Sore throat

• Severe muscle and joint pain

• Headache

• Marked fatigue lasting for weeks

• Chills and excessive sweating

• Loss of appetite

In children:

• Nausea or vomiting

• Ear pain

Influenza is caused by infection with Influenza viruses, including:

• Influenza A: Can infect both humans and animals; responsible for pandemics.

• Influenza B: Infects humans only; causes seasonal outbreaks.

• Influenza C: Usually mild; less common in humans.

Transmission occurs through:

• Inhalation of respiratory droplets from coughing or sneezing.

• Direct contact with contaminated objects or surfaces, followed by touching the mouth, nose, or eyes.

• Pneumonia

• Bronchitis

• Ear infections

• Sinus infections

• Worsening of chronic illnesses (e.g., asthma, heart failure, diabetes)

• Severe cases may result in hospitalization or death, particularly among elderly, pregnant women, and people with weakened immunity.

• Clinical evaluation based on symptoms and physical examination.

• Rapid Influenza Diagnostic Tests (RIDTs) may be used in some cases to confirm infection.

• Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) tests provide the most accurate diagnosis when necessary.

Antiviral Medications:

• Oseltamivir (Tamiflu)

• Zanamivir (Relenza)

• Peramivir (Rapivab)

🔸 Best effectiveness when taken within the first 48 hours of symptom onset to reduce severity and duration.

Fever and Pain Relievers:

• Paracetamol (Panadol)

• Ibuprofen (Brufen)

Cough Suppressants and Antihistamines:

• Dextromethorphan (Toplexil Syrup)

• Chlorpheniramine (Avil Syrup)

Antibiotics:

Only if secondary bacterial infections occur (e.g., pneumonia):

• Amoxicillin/Clavulanic acid (Flumox)

• Cefuroxime (Ceporex)

Vitamin Supplements:

• Vitamin C (Vitacid C, Cevilene drops)

⚠️ Medical Warning: Aspirin must not be given to children due to the risk of Reye’s Syndrome — a rare but serious condition.

• Annual influenza vaccination (Flu Shot)

• Frequent and proper handwashing

• Avoiding close contact with infected individuals

• Covering mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing

• Regular disinfection of surfaces

• Staying home when experiencing flu-like symptoms

• There are no officially approved alternative therapies to cure influenza.

• Some studies suggest that Vitamin C, zinc supplements, or honey may reduce symptom duration, but scientific evidence remains inconclusive.