Influenza A: All we need to know

About

It is a respiratory disorder. Influenza is a contagious viral infection; also commonly known as flu.

Also known as: H1N1 Flu or Pig influenza

There are annually less than 5 thousand cases of this flu in India. It can affect any age group. (3)

- Not self-treatable
- Not self-diagnosable
- Lab tests or imaging are required
- Short-term: resolves within months
- Can be prevented by vaccination

Caused by : It is primarily caused by influenza A virus.

There are primarily three types of influenza: Type A, Type B, and Type C. Influenza A can sometimes be life-threatening.
If left untreated; it may cause ear infection, diarrhea, nausea, dizziness, abdominal pain, chest pain, pneumonia or bronchitis.

Symptoms

Self-diagnosable:
● Common cold and cough
● Fever and weakness
● Sneezing and sore throat
● Headaches
● Fatigue, chills, and body aches.

People may experience: pain in the muscles
Also common: running nose

Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis
Rapid influenza diagnostics test: this test checks for the presence of influenza virus in the body.

Treatment

Self-care: take ample rest and increase your fluid intake. This may prevent or cure mild infections.

Medicines: the doctors may prescribe antiviral medications, IV fluids, pain relievers, and neuraminidase inhibitors to reduce the severity of an infection.

Specialists: for further concerns, contact a doctor, primary care provider, or a physician. For your optimum health and treatment, visit mfine.

Other Specialities