|
Avian Influenza Virus
Influenza, or flu, is a common form of viral upper respiratory infection that commonly affects a large percentage of children and adults. This infection occurs more often in the winter months and is transmitted through inhalation of particle droplets (a sneeze from an infected individual) containing the virus. There are a wide variety of viruses that can be responsible for flu-like illness; they are, however, not all treated in the same way. The incubation period (the interval between exposure to the appearance of symptoms) is anywhere from 1 to 6 days before onset of symptoms. In addition to a wide variety of more general symptoms, viral upper respiratory infections can lead to pneumonia (lung infection) and sinusitis (congestion). Children are commonly infected because they transmit these infections so easily from one to another (through close and indiscriminate contact). Bronchiolitis and croup are typical presentations of viral upper respiratory infections in children and infants. A flu illness in the elderly patient, considered more serious, can lead to a secondary bacterial infection with dehydration. Common symptoms in adults include: fever, chills, runny nose, sore throat, swollen glands (lymph nodes), frontal headache, muscle and body aches, joint pains, dry cough, chest pains (pleurisy) with coughing, and weakness.
Children and infants can have wheezing (asthma-like symptoms), particularly in a related infection, known as bronchiolitis. Evaluation will include medical history and physical examination to search for signs or symptoms of bacterial infection that requires antibiotic therapy. Blood tests may be necessary (i.e. blood counts, blood cultures, and blood chemistry) in some cases. A chest x-ray can often reveal pneumonia. Urinalysis will be performed to exclude other causes of fever such as urinary tract infection. Treatment for the flu is largely supportive. Viral infections are usually nonserious and self-limited. Pneumonia will require treatment with antibiotics. Close observation for signs of dehydration is particularly important in infants and elderly patients. Fever control requires acetaminophen every 4 hours in the proper dosage. Plenty of fluids (water,juice), along with avoidance of alcohol and caffeine will be suggested. Wheezing symptoms in children may require prescription medications (bronchodilators) to clear the airways. A cool mist vaporizer can aid in decongesting the infant or child. Saltwater nose drops (available at your pharmacy without a prescription) are helpful in the infant followed by suctioning the nose with a soft bulb syringe. Close medical follow-up is suggested. Vaccines against certain viruses (flu shot) have been quite successful and may be indicated in the elderly, diabetics, health-care workers, and other high risk groups. See your doctor for information on this preventative measure.
Hope this article will provide you information about influenza.
|
