Influenza

Question 1

What is influenza?

Answer 1

A common viral infection of the respiratory tract causing seasonal winter outbreaks.

Influenza is highly contagious and can lead to significant morbidity and mortality.

Question 2

What is the incubation period for influenza?

Answer 2

1-4 days.

This period can vary based on the individual and the strain of the virus.

Question 3

How is influenza transmitted?

Answer 3

• respiratory droplets
• aerosolisation
• person-person contact
• contaminated surfaces

Understanding transmission is crucial for prevention strategies.

Question 4

What are some risk factors for severe influenza?

Answer 4

• extremes of age
• immunocompromise
• comorbidities
• pregnancy
• healthcare workers

These groups are more vulnerable to complications from influenza.

Question 5

What are common clinical features of influenza?

Answer 5

• fever
• lethargy and fatigue
• anorexia
• myalgia
• headache
• cough
• pharyngitis
• coryza

Symptoms can vary in intensity and duration.

Question 6

What distinguishes flu from a cold?

Answer 6

• flu has abrupt onset
• fever is typical of flu, uncommon with colds
• in flu, people feel ‘wiped out’

These differences help in clinical diagnosis.

Question 7

What is the main approach to managing influenza?

Answer 7

• supportive care
• antivirals

Supportive care includes rest, hydration, antipyretics, and analgesia.

Question 8

What supportive care measures are recommended for influenza?

Answer 8

• rest
• hydration
• antipyretics
• analgesia

These measures help alleviate symptoms and support recovery.

Question 9

What antivirals are used for influenza management?

Answer 9

• oseltamivir
• zanamivir

Antivirals are most effective when administered within 48 hours for high-risk or hospitalized patients.

Question 10

What are potential complications of influenza?

Answer 10

• 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.

Question 11

What is the recommendation for influenza vaccination?

Answer 11

Annual flu vaccine.

Vaccination is crucial for preventing influenza and its complications.

Question 12

Who should receive the annual flu vaccine?

Answer 12

• > 65 years
• children
• healthcare workers
• high-risk groups

These groups are prioritized for vaccination to enhance community immunity.