Treatment of influenza in adults. Flu symptoms in adults. Drugs that affect the immune system and the virus

An influenza epidemic is not uncommon in the cold season. Some believe that if the signs of influenza in adults are similar to, then it must be treated in the same way. Treatment is often limited folk remedies. Flu is not a cold. This is very serious illness, the treatment of which is prescribed only by a specialist doctor. Some colds are similar, so it is very easy to mistake ARI for the flu and vice versa. Wrong and untimely treatment threatens severe complications and exacerbation of chronic diseases.

What is the flu?

Influenza is a disease caused by a certain type of virus. They enter the human body through the upper respiratory tract. It is the throat that is affected first by the virus. The source of infection is a person with influenza. The virus, entering the body, does not manifest itself at first. Its incubation period is 24-48 hours. After a while, the first signs of the disease appear sharply: body temperature rises, chills and fever appear, sore throat, weakness, aching bones (especially in the spine and limbs), a slight runny nose, photophobia, often insomnia or, conversely, constant desire save. Symptoms do not subside for several days.

During this period, it is necessary to strictly observe bed rest and drink as much fluid as possible. It could be fruit juice from fresh berries or jam, herbal tea or compote without sugar. It is recommended to regularly ventilate the patient's room.

To alleviate the course of the disease, you can take antipyretics, but only if the body temperature is above 38 ° C. Doctors do not recommend lowering the temperature unless it threatens a person’s life: so protective forces The body is trying to resist the virus.

After 3-4 days, the fever goes away, the body temperature drops sharply to normal (+36.6 °C). This indicates that the disease passed without complications. Weakness in this case may remain for another 2 weeks. During this period, most often appear severe runny nose and cough. It is necessary to continue treatment even if the effect of the virus has stopped.

Even after recovery, a person may have a headache, insomnia and irritability. These symptoms are normal course the illness disappears after 2 weeks. But if the fever and elevated temperature bodies will appear on the 4th or 5th day of illness, the patient needs hospitalization. At the hospital he is prescribed antiviral therapy to prevent serious complications.

Even if the patient's condition improves, the patient should continue taking antiviral drugs. Doctors recommend taking them for 1 week. This is enough for the disease to pass without complications. It must be remembered that, like other diseases, a doctor must be treated. Self-medication of viral diseases is unacceptable.

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Signs of the flu

To distinguish the flu from other diseases, you need to know its main symptoms. Experts note following symptoms influenza in adults:

Very high, sharply rising body temperature (above 40 °C).
Strong headache(similar to migraine).
Pain in muscles and joints, aches throughout the body.
Severe pain in the eyes, redness of the mucous membranes of the eyes.
Fear of bright light.
Severe runny nose, pharyngitis.
, pain when swallowing.
Chest discomfort and hacking dry cough.
Drowsiness, severe weakness.
Dizziness.
Increased blood pressure.
Profuse sweating.
Chills, fever.

Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea are not necessarily symptoms of the flu, but may also indicate a viral infection.

The main difference between the flu and a cold is its rapid development, accompanied by a sudden rise in temperature above 38 °C.

The disease is accompanied by severe intoxication of the body, which has the following symptoms:

chills;
adynamia;
muscle and headaches;
aches throughout the body;
dry cough with chest pain.

Catarrhal symptoms are mild. With any other viral infection (acute respiratory infection, adenoviral) often predominates catarrhal symptoms, that is, an adult begins to have a runny nose, a sore throat, catarrh of the upper and lower respiratory tract, bronchitis. Only then, against the background of these catarrhal phenomena, does increased body temperature appear.

There are other hidden forms of influenza, for example, the atypical form. SARS may go away without any symptoms severe symptoms and appear only on advanced stage. Flu is a serious illness that requires immediate medical attention. When treating this disease, you should strictly follow all the specialist’s recommendations and not engage in self-diagnosis and self-medication.

Before each autumn-winter season, scientists study in detail the viruses and strains of influenza that will prevail this year. The flu itself is not dangerous disease, but its consequences can be extremely severe. Complications from this disease can lead to disability, and some cases are fatal.

What is the flu?

Flu is viral disease, occurring in an acute form. The virus, regardless of the strain, affects the upper respiratory tract. The disease affects the upper respiratory tract, affecting the trachea, larynx, and nasopharynx. The virus affects both men and women equally often. The greatest risk of getting sick is in people aged 20 to 50 years, especially those who have chronic pathologies, as well as immunodeficiencies. The disease is most dangerous for children, pregnant women, and the elderly.

An outbreak of an epidemic or pandemic of influenza usually occurs in the autumn-winter period, less often in early spring. Complications occur in every fifth sick person. In total, about 500,000 people a year die from the flu. That's why it's so important to know the signs and symptoms of the 2016 flu.

Routes of infection

Influenza in adults is transmitted by airborne droplets, as well as during household contacts. The respiratory route is the most common. When a sick person sneezes or coughs, the flu pathogen enters the air, which is inhaled by a healthy person. More rare are cases when the virus settles on hands and surrounding objects and is transmitted through them. This applies to viruses type B and C. However, there is also an influenza virus type A, which also affects domestic animals and birds, so you can get infected from them too.

In conditions external environment any type of virus lives no more than eight hours. It is preserved for the longest low temperatures air. The influenza virus enters the body through the mucous membranes of the face - the eyes, nose and mouth.

Signs

Influenza can be classified according to the severity of symptoms:

A mild form of the disease is characterized by an increase in temperature to a maximum of 38 degrees and slight intoxication in the body.
Flu form moderate severity involves an increase in temperature to 39.5 degrees and pronounced signs of intoxication.
In severe form, the flu develops almost at lightning speed and is characterized by a fever of up to 40 degrees and above, sleep disturbances, and severe headaches are observed.

Important! With any form of influenza, it is important to see a doctor as soon as possible.

Sometimes there may be no signs of influenza in adults; this form of the disease is called atypical and is more difficult to diagnose.

Main symptoms of influenza:

Headache
No runny nose, dryness in the nasopharynx
Pain and aches in muscles, joints, general weakness
Tearing
If there is a cough, then dry, sore throat
No appetite
Observed increased sweating
Chest pain
Photophobia

How to tell the flu from a cold

The treatment for the flu and the common cold is different. But often the patient does not understand the full danger of the situation and confuses one disease with another. In fact, these diseases are very different from each other in many ways.

The flu begins abruptly, the very first signs appear very clearly, and an acute type of the disease is observed. The cold develops gradually.
The flu is characterized by a high temperature of up to 40 degrees; with a cold, such a high fever is not observed. How long the temperature lasts for the flu depends on timely and competent treatment.
With the flu, adults do not have a runny nose or sneezing, while with a cold these are some of the most painful symptoms.
Weakness and fatigue exist in both diseases, but with influenza it is more pronounced. The general condition of the flu is bad.

Important! It is better not to take risks and consult a doctor at the first signs of the disease. He will determine the symptoms and treatment of the flu or cold.

Flu strains in 2016

In 2016, virologists predict an outbreak of influenza, which is why they advise getting vaccinated on time. Predicted strains:

Swine flu, H1N, is a type A viral flu that is transmitted not only between people, but also from animals to people. It is characterized by large-scale epidemics, severe complications in humans and high mortality. Except traditional ways disease transmission, the H1N1 virus is also transmitted passively, that is, by eating the meat of infected domestic animals and poultry.
Asian flu, H2N The influenza virus manifests itself cyclically for 60 years, which is why scientists predict the appearance of this strain right now. The virus first appeared in 1957 in China. The epidemic raged for two years, reaching the USSR. Starting in 1968, the H2N2 strain was supplanted, and since then the flu vaccine for this type has ceased.
Hong Kong flu, H3N Features diseases are similar to swine flu, but H3N2 is considered less dangerous. Most often it affects people with reduced immunity. At risk are children under two years of age and elderly people over 65 years of age, pregnant women, and HIV-infected people.

Attention! It is possible to determine which strain of influenza a person is infected with only after passing the appropriate tests.

Diagnostics

Before prescribing any medications for the flu, it is necessary to conduct a diagnosis to make sure viral nature diseases:

Collection of anamnesis. The doctor listens to the patient's complaints and asks appropriate questions.
Examination of the patient. Influenza in an adult is characterized by a white coating on the tongue, redness of the palate, tonsils, back wall pharynx and other signs.
Listen to the lungs, as sometimes pneumonia occurs with the flu.
Laboratory research. Includes general and biochemical blood tests, urine and stool tests.
Specific examinations. This includes a rapid test to determine the serotype of the virus using special test strips. Also actively used PCR method when a smear is taken from the nasopharyngeal mucosa. This is the most informative and exact way determining the type of virus. To others special research include enzyme immunoassay, RSC analysis, and RTGA analysis. Virological infection is determined by sputum culture.

Important! Type and strain definitions allow you to assign competent treatment against the flu.

Treatment

Timely and competent treatment of influenza in adults helps to avoid complications and serious consequences.

Important! Only a doctor knows how to treat the flu! It is very important to strictly follow all his instructions: adhere to the regimen, take medications strictly according to schedule.

Flu, depending on the severity and form of its course, can be treated at home or in a hospital. Reasons for hospitalization may be the presence of complications, exacerbation of chronic diseases, or lack of proper care for the patient at home.

During treatment, it is important to follow the following recommendations:

Bed rest
Contraindications to physical activity
Drink plenty of fluids
Nutritious food
Application physical methods cooling the body at high temperatures, such as wiping, or a cold bubble on the forehead

Drug therapy

After the examination, the doctor will select suitable drugs for the treatment of influenza. The following groups of medications are usually prescribed:

Antiviral agents. They effectively fight the influenza virus, killing it. These include Remantadine, Arbidol, Tamiflu, Ingavirin, Grippferon and others.
An antibiotic is prescribed only when bacterial complications or for their prevention. Directly to the virus antibacterial drugs don't work.
Antipyretics. necessary when the temperature rises above 38.5 degrees.
Anti-inflammatory drugs local action. If you have inflammation in your throat, you need to gargle it with a solution of salt, soda and iodine, Jox, Lugol's solution. Good help to relieve inflammation Miramistin, Orosept spray. Of the tablets, Lizobakt, Faringosept, Strepsils lollipops are the most effective.
Antitussive drugs are needed if the flu is accompanied by a cough. Suitable ACC, Lazolvan and other medicines.
Nasal sprays and drops. A runny nose with the flu is rare; if it occurs, you can use any medications to relieve the symptom.
Detoxification therapy. It is carried out intravenously with a pronounced intoxication of the body.
Antihistamines are prescribed to reduce inflammation and desensitize the body.

Prevention

Prevention of influenza and SARS in adults includes the following actions:

Strengthening the immune system.
Avoiding large crowds of people during the period of activity of the virus.
Avoid contact with sick people.

At the first symptoms of the flu, you should consult a doctor and do not self-medicate, as this can lead to serious complications. Often, when signs of a cold or flu appear, people start taking an antibiotic, which in this case useless.

Vaccinations

Everyone knows that the most common prevention of influenza in adults is vaccination. Discussions about whether to get vaccinated and whether there will be an adverse reaction to the flu shot arise before each fall and winter season.

A vaccine that contains surface antigens of influenza strains is injected into the body of a healthy person. The question of whether to vaccinate should be decided long before the onset of an epidemic. The effect of the vaccination will be if it is done in September-October, since immunity to influenza viruses is developed within 2-4 weeks.

If there are contraindications and it is supposed negative reaction, then adults cannot be vaccinated against influenza, a medical withdrawal is prescribed. Another prevention option is proposed: taking immunomodulatory drugs and observing personal hygiene rules.

The h1n1 influenza strain, referred to as swine, prevails this winter. This subtype is the result of crossing 2 different types of viruses. That is why it comes with complications. His virus spreads instantly. After a short contact with a sick person, the “delights” of the disease overtake the healthy one. A person with the flu is contagious a day before the onset of symptoms of the disease.

Doctors warn that if you do not go to the hospital in a timely manner, swine flu 2016, or rather its complications, can be fatal.

Who is most susceptible to the disease

There are several risk groups for severe development of influenza:

People over 65 years of age.
Children under 5 years of age.
Pregnant women.
People with chronic diseases.

How to recognize swine flu

At first, any cold can be confused with swine flu. However, with the flu, the temperature is not lower than 38 degrees.

Vomiting and diarrhea, complications at work respiratory organs indirectly indicate the presence of the swine flu virus.

Important: a patient with swine flu produces a lot of sweat. When you have a cold, sweating is not as intense. Also there is a strong irritability, absence, when crying, tears and urination.

U individuals acute illness preceded by warning signs: runny nose and cough, gastrointestinal disorders. After 3–4 days, a typical flu develops with headache and fever.

Swine flu test ( laboratory diagnostics), and clinical picture allow for the diagnosis of swine flu. The whole procedure takes about 25-48 hours.

How long does the disease last

The duration of a viral infection depends on the characteristics of the organism. With properly prescribed treatment, the disease disappears after 7 to 10 days.

Indicators of recovery are the absence of fever, headache, weakness, and cough. After a fever, at least a day should pass.

Flu symptoms in adults

At the initial stage With swine flu symptoms 2016 can be confused with the usual type of virus. These include:

Weakness.
Temperature rise above 38 degrees.
Muscle pain.
Heaviness in the head.

Can be:

Nausea.
Abdominal pain, diarrhea.
Inflammation of the eyes.
Vomit.

Later join:

Runny nose, cough, painful sensations in the throat, shortness of breath.

After 2 - 3 days, if treatment is not started on time, these symptoms can provoke pneumonia.

The incubation period of swine flu is 3–4, in rare cases – 7 days.

Important: early treatment promotes rapid recovery.

Symptoms of the disease in children

The symptoms of swine flu in children and adults are identical. However, during the course of the disease, children have their own characteristics:

Apathy.
Sudden change of mood.
Drowsiness.
Rapid deterioration in health.

A slight malaise from morning to evening can develop into high fever And sore throat. The very rapid development of the disease is explained by the still unformed immunity of the child's body.

Swine flu in children often causes complications: asphyxia, pneumonia, hemorrhage in the internal organs, damage to the nervous system.

Important: when the first symptoms of the flu appear, immediately call a doctor to see your child.

When to ask for help

The patient needs to urgently call an ambulance if he is worried about:

Poor heart function.
Cyanosis (blue discoloration) of the skin.
Severe respiratory failure.
Fainting.
Feelings of pain in the chest.
Dyspnea.
Signs of brain depression.
Decreased blood pressure.

You need to rush to the hospital if your temperature does not drop within 3 days.

Treatment for adults

During the period of fever (5 - 7 days) until the temperature normalizes, the patient should not get out of bed. And as soon as the first symptoms of the disease appear, call a doctor.

For better body resistance, you need to take vitamins, drink plenty of fluids. The food should be warm. Spicy, fried, pickled foods are prohibited.

Drug therapy

IN severe cases – antiviral drugs(Tamiflu, Relenza). The action of drugs brings a greater effect when taken within two days after the onset of the disease. The drugs are taken for 5 days, sometimes longer.

In moderate and mild cases - antivirals(gripferon, arbidol, cycloferon, kagocel).
Antibiotics (cephalosporins, vancomycin) are prescribed when complications (bronchitis, pneumonia) appear.
Antipyretics (ibuprofen, paracetamol).
For the nose - vasoconstrictors (otrivin, nazol, Nazivin).
To relieve cough (ambroxol, ACC).
Antihistamines (Zodak, Claritin).

In the hospital, in order to reduce intoxication, detoxification therapy is carried out, glucocorticosteroids are prescribed.

Treatment of children

The swine flu virus, which changes periodically and becomes more and more resistant to the drugs previously used to combat it, is quite dangerous. Therefore, you shouldn’t deal with it on your own; you should definitely go to a therapist and find out how to treat swine flu.

The following drugs are designed to combat the disease:

Antiviral

Zanamivir (Relenza) is used by inhalation. Children of days do 2 inhalations (5 days 2 times a day). Suffering from asthma (bronchial) drug is not recommended.
Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) leads to rapid recovery if the first symptoms of swine flu appear in a child. The medicine should not be given to babies under 1 year old.

Antipyretics

Indomethacin;
Nurofen.

Vasoconstrictors

Tetrizoline;
Naphazoline;
Oxymetazoline;
Indanazoline - to improve nasal breathing.

Treatment of pregnant women

During the epidemic, all pregnant women with severe intoxication should be hospitalized.

The use of a large amount of fluid (in the absence of edema).
Medicines for swine flu: antiviral (arbidol, viferon in suppositories) Relenza, Tamiflu.
In case of vomiting (inability to take tablets), Panavir is administered intramuscularly.
To reduce the manifestations of fever - ascorutin, paracetamol.
Cephalosporins are prescribed when bacterial pneumonia occurs.

Treatment of influenza with traditional methods

Treatment of swine flu should be comprehensive. In addition to bed rest, good nutrition, reception medications and vitamins good action provide traditional medicine:

The use of inhalations with medicinal herbs(eucalyptus, chamomile, pine twigs, sage) and potato peels.
Mix half a glass of vodka with chopped garlic clove. The resulting solution (a few drops five times a day) is applied to the tongue, held longer in the mouth and swallowed.
A decoction of dried cherries relieves fever. Mix 100 g of berries and half a liter of water and cook over low heat for half an hour.
Drink teas (raspberry, linden, ginger).
Wash the onion with the peel, add 50 g of sugar, fill to the top with water. Cook over low heat for half an hour. Take on a table spoon several times a day.
Mix a little sugar with 4 yolks (until foam forms), add about half a liter of warmed beer, lemon zest, cinnamon, cloves and for 3 - 4 minutes, without bringing to a boil, cook over low heat. The resulting drink is instead of tea.
Mix 1 teaspoon of salt, juice of 1 lemon, 1 g of ascorbic acid and dissolve in one and a half liters of boiled water (warm). Before going to bed, within 2 - 3 hours, drink a little of the entire solution.
Mustard plasters can replace honey massage. It is necessary to melt a tablespoon of honey and gently rub it into the sternum and between the shoulder blades. The massage lasts about 2 minutes.

Complications from swine flu

The flu progresses quickly, but causes great discomfort. The most painful symptoms recede after a few days, and after a week they practically disappear. However, some patients experience complications:

Rarely - damage to the spinal cord and brain.
Pneumonia with severe course caused by the swine flu virus or an associated bacterial infection. This disease is characterized by extreme aggressiveness, respiratory failure quickly develops.
Rhabdomyolysis or myositis (disorders of movement with pain and weakness in the muscles).

Very rarely does the flu shot cause nervous disease(Guillain-Barre syndrome) which is accompanied by severe temporary weakness.

Obese people, weakened by chronic diseases, pregnant women and children may experience death from swine flu. According to statistics, this happens in 7% of cases.

Prevention

Prevention of swine flu 2016 includes the following measures:

Wear a mask in enclosed spaces.
Do not contact sick people.
Rinse the nose with a solution sea salt or soda.
Do not stay in crowded places.
Ventilate the premises more often.
Do wet cleaning in the premises several times a day.
Treat the nasal mucosa with ointments (with viferon, oxolinic). If there are no such ointments, then you can use paraffin or petroleum jelly.
If there are signs of swine flu in adults or children living together with healthy family members, you need to follow the rules of hygiene: wash your hands more often, use individual household items, carefully process (boil) dishes after using them.
Maintain immunity: diversify the diet with citrus fruits, onions, garlic, eat well (eat proteins, carbohydrates). During the epidemic, postpone the process of losing weight - do not limit food.
After talking with a therapist, you can take antiviral drugs for swine flu.
Important in the prevention of the disease are: good sleep and gymnastics classes.

Immunity strengthens vitamin C, tinctures of Eleutherococcus and Rhodiola rosea, sufficient intake of fruits and vegetables.

Important: most effective means prevention is vaccination.

From any flu, including swine, you need to be treated under the supervision of a doctor. Do not panic, but also be careful about your health. The swine flu epidemic of 2016 contributed to raising the prices of medicines, so in order not to get sick, take care of preventive measures.

In accordance with the forecasts of experts, in 2017 the flu will pass through Russia in the form of a real epidemic. Already at the beginning of January, the epidemic threshold for the incidence of influenza was exceeded by 15-20% in most large Russian cities. Thousands of schools and lyceums were closed for quarantine. The first cases of “actual” influenza were registered at the end of 2016. Rospotrebnadzor experts say that the peak of the epidemic is yet to come. The flu will strike with particular force in mid-February. But in general, the virus obeys the laws of any flu - epidemiological activity begins at the moment of thaw, which is preceded by frost. By official forecasts Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation in 2017, a high incidence is expected in all age groups population.

Influenza is an acute respiratory viral infection characterized by severe course and development serious complications. Group diseases and outbreaks are recorded in the autumn-winter period. The pathogen is transmitted by airborne droplets or airborne dust, penetrates the human body, weakens immune protection, opening the way for other microbes.

There is an opinion among experts that the 2017 flu came to us from China. This can be easily explained by the large population, the huge number of pigs and birds, from which the virus easily spreads to people, maintaining or changing its pathogenic properties. Circulating air currents carry the disease from one area to another.

distribution map hong kong flu as of January 2017

Flu is a viral pathology. To prevent its development, it is necessary to comply preventive rules, and when the first ones appear clinical symptoms- visit a doctor. The situation is changing every day, and the infection continues to spread. Delayed seeking of medical help can kill a person, especially those with weakened immune systems.

The Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation is actively preparing for the 2017 influenza epidemic. In our country, a universal vaccine is being developed for children and adults in order to provide complete prevention and protect the population from seasonal infection. Vaccination will be carried out in large cities of Russia, where the main flow of the population is concentrated.

Etiology and epidemiology

According to epidemiologists, the following strains of influenza virus are expected to circulate in 2017:

Hong Kong virus(bird flu subtype - N3N2) is considered the most dangerous. At the end of 2016, a new strain began to spread, to which people have not yet developed immunity. It is expected that throughout 2017 it will prevail over other strains. Possible increase in morbidity rates. Pathology is different high performance mortality in previous years.
California virus(swine flu strain) is pathogenic for both humans and animals. In 2009, this strain caused a swine flu epidemic in different countries ah peace. Most people have developed immunity to it. Clinically the disease resembles a common cold, which rapidly progresses and sharply worsens the condition of patients.
Virus Brisbane causes local outbreaks of influenza and is considered less dangerous because the disease is relatively mild and without complications.
Strain "Switzerland" is a type of California virus that has mutated and acquired new pathogenic properties. The disease manifests itself respiratory symptoms and is rarely complicated.
Yamagata and Phuket– unstable and relatively safe strains compared to previous ones. They constantly mutate, changing the usual symptoms of the disease, and are difficult to diagnose. However, if the disease is not treated, heart and lung dysfunction may develop.

Influenza virus strains differ from each other in antigenic properties and the location of RNA fragments. Under influence exogenous factors they are able to change their genetic properties. This variability of the influenza virus does not allow the body to develop strong immunity and resist infection.

Persons at risk require special attention and the most difficult to suffer from the flu. These include:

Elderly people and small children,
Persons suffering from chronic diseases of the respiratory system, heart and blood vessels,
Pregnant and lactating women,
Persons living in special boarding schools, closed collectives,
Trade workers, social workers, Catering, transport,
Doctors and teachers
Organized preschoolers, schoolchildren and students,
Persons with weakened immune systems.

Flu is a seasonal infection. With the arrival of cold weather the amount colds is growing steadily. Viruses infect huge numbers of people. Respiratory pathologies develop. In spring and autumn, the human body is very weakened. And in the summer, the chances of contracting the influenza virus are minimal. Sun energy and vitamins strengthen the body's immune defense.

The spread of infection occurs by an aerosol mechanism, which is realized by airborne droplets or airborne dust. Infection with influenza is facilitated by close contact with a sick person, staying in the same room with him. In the absence of certain protective measures, infection is inevitable. With droplets of saliva, viruses enter the environment while sneezing, coughing and talking. They penetrate the upper respiratory tract and multiply in epithelial cells. Epithelial cells become inflamed and begin to destroy, catarrh and intoxication occur.

Video: about the 2017 flu epidemic

Symptoms

The clinical signs of influenza in 2017 are no different from those of previous epidemics. are typical, and the causative strain can be reliably identified by analyzing the DNA of the virus. Some features of the course of influenza caused by various strains will be indicated below.

The incubation period of any flu lasts on average one to two days. Influenza manifests itself with symptoms of intoxication, respiratory, catarrhal and dyspeptic syndromes. Patients complain of chills, fever, fatigue, arthralgia, myalgia, runny nose, hoarseness, gum sensitivity, fatigue, and diarrhea.

In children, the flu is very severe and can be fatal. To protect children from influenza infection, it is necessary to vaccinate them in a timely manner, and if the disease develops, to treat them correctly.

Depending on the severity clinical manifestations There are 4 forms of influenza infection: mild, moderate, severe, hypertoxic:

The first is characterized by a slight rise in body temperature, satisfactory condition patients with symptoms of intoxication.
The moderate form is characterized by an increase in body temperature to 39 degrees, severe intoxication, catarrhal, respiratory and dyspeptic syndromes, the appearance of complications from the ENT organs.
In the severe form, the patient “burns,” his consciousness is impaired, hallucinations, convulsions, subcutaneous hemorrhages, and severe complications often incompatible with life occur.
The hypertoxic form is manifested by severe symptoms respiratory failure, hemodynamic disorders, encephalopathy, hyperthermia, meningism.

The influenza virus is tropic to the epithelium of the respiratory tract, cardiac muscle and nerve tissue. Influenza in the absence of adequate and timely treatment can provoke the development of pneumonia, diseases of the ENT organs, myocarditis, meningoencephalitis, arachnoiditis, polyneuritis. Disorders of the kidneys, liver and glands internal secretion develops quite rarely.

During the course of the flu, which is relevant in 2017, some features can be distinguished based on the strain that caused it:

Hong Kong flu

The disease begins acutely. The patient is shaking with chills. It lasts for several days heat, which cannot be brought down with antipyretic drugs. Fever is accompanied by a painful headache, weakness, drowsiness, fatigue, and apathy. Extremely alarming symptoms are vomiting and diarrhea. These are the signs intoxication syndrome caused by the accumulation of toxic substances in the body.

In the future there will be catarrhal manifestations- nasal congestion, sore throat, worse when swallowing, dry, hysterical cough, pain and burning in the eyes. Difficulty breathing through the nose forces the patient to breathe through the mouth. Pain in joints, back and limbs worsens already serious condition flu

In severe cases, patients have impaired digestion, which is manifested by upset stool, abdominal pain, and nausea. Subject to bedtime and drinking regime The patient's condition improves by 3-4 days. By the end of the week, all symptoms of the disease disappear.

California flu

The disease manifests itself with classic cold symptoms, which appear two days after infection. Patients complain of weakness, weakness, body aches, malaise, and chills. Body temperature rises to febrile levels and is accompanied by severe headache. The thermometer can show 40° and above. Symptoms of intoxication increase quickly: hyperhidrosis appears, throbbing pain in the temples and back of the head, a feeling of sand in the eyes, pain when rotating eyeballs, photophobia. The patient is irritated bright light, any noise is acutely felt. Conjunctivitis is one of the frequent companions California flu.

A day later, symptoms of upper respiratory tract catarrh appear: nasal congestion, cough, sore throat. There is no rhinorrhea or sore throat. On examination, specialists detect hyperemia of the posterior pharyngeal wall and soft palate. In children, breathing becomes difficult and frequent, the skin acquires a bluish-gray tint, and painful sensitivity appears. In adults, shortness of breath, chest pain, vomiting, and confusion occur. Painful cough and heaviness in the chest are caused by the involvement of the tracheal mucosa in the inflammatory process. The sick person cannot take a deep breath and exhale, his eyes “sour.” Symptoms of the California flu may subside and then return with renewed vigor.

U certain group For people, the Californian flu does not always go away without consequences. In pregnant women, children, the elderly and people weakened by the disease, the disease occurs as a viral pneumonia. It is difficult to treat and often leads to disastrous consequences. Patients with signs of pulmonary edema and respiratory failure must be urgently hospitalized in a specialized hospital.

Flu Brisbane

The Australian Brisbane influenza virus is the less dangerous of the three strains of the disease. It does not cause serious complications and manifests itself with vague symptoms. Persons from the risk group and weakened patients are at risk of being admitted to the department.

The main symptoms of the pathology are: fever, myalgia, rhinitis. Patients report mild indigestion. In rare cases, Brisbane may begin with unexpected and numerous symptoms: headache, runny nose, cough. The condition of most patients does not deteriorate significantly and begins to recover after a couple of days: body temperature returns to normal, general health improves, disappears discomfort in the throat and nose.

If the patient does not improve by the end of 4 days, the alarm should be sounded. A short-term drop and a new rise in temperature indicate that the immune system is weakened and the body is unable to defeat the infection.

Treatment

Treatment for influenza usually takes place at home. In severe cases, patients are hospitalized in a hospital. Persons at risk require hospitalization in the department.

Knowing the characteristics of the influenza virus that is relevant in 2017 and the main manifestations of the disease, you can easily make a diagnosis, choose treatment tactics and prevent the development of complications. Self-medication for the flu can be dangerous. This applies most to children and the elderly.

Experts prescribe the following groups of drugs to patients:

- the basis of etiotropic therapy. The most effective drugs in 2017 are considered to be Remantadine, Tamiflu, Relenza, Arbidol, and Amiksin. (Attention! Such drugs must be taken as prescribed by a doctor!)
Antipyretics taken if the body temperature exceeds 38.5 degrees. In your home medicine cabinet you must have Paracetamol, Ibuprofen, Nurofen,
For nasal congestion and runny nose ease nasal breathing will help vasoconstrictors based on xylometazoline and oxymetazoline - “Tizin”, “Nazivin”, “Rinonorm”. You can rinse your nose at home saline solution.
Anti-edematous action have antihistamines- “Suprastin”, “Tavegil”, “Tsetrin”.
Multivitamins strengthen the body as a whole.

Peace, positive emotions and care for the patient from loved ones will help speed up treatment of influenza and make it more effective.

Prevention

Measures to prevent infection with influenza infection:

Constant hand washing with soap,
Maintaining personal hygiene,
Carrying out wet cleaning in rooms with disinfectant,
Frequent ventilation
Using a medical mask in in public places and transport,
Use of disinfectant wipes, only personal utensils and hygiene products during the day,
Moisturizing the nasal passages with saline solution, Aqua Maris, Salin,
Use of standard anti-influenza drugs healthy people in a reduced dosage.

Will help increase immunity and overall resistance of the body following rules: patients need to get enough sleep, eat a balanced diet, take vitamins, exercise, take daily walks for fresh air. In order to prevent the flu, it is necessary to strengthen the immune system, toughen up, and refuse bad habits, lead healthy image life. These are the principles general prevention any colds.

Currently considered quite effective specific prevention influenza, which involves immunizing healthy individuals. Exists great amount various influenza vaccines. In Russia, the most common are: the domestic one called “Grippol”, the Korean “JS Flue” and the French “Vaxigripp”. Their effectiveness has been proven by modern medicine.

Many modern influenza vaccines are universal and help against any strain, due to the stimulation and release of substances that disrupt the integrity of the influenza virus, including “new varieties.”

After vaccination, most people remain healthy throughout the entire epidemic season. Even after vaccination, the body of people with weakened immune systems cannot synthesize a sufficient amount of antibodies. Such people should be especially careful about their health. Vaccination is mandatory for this segment of the population. The body will need at least two weeks after vaccination to form stable immunity. If antibodies to the new strain do not have time to develop in full, the risk of developing severe complications it will be much less.

Influenza is a seasonal epidemic that can cause painful suffering for patients and high mortality. Vaccination is by far the most in an effective way to avoid viral infection. Regular subcutaneous or intramuscular injection can protect the human body from a dangerous disease.

To avoid the 2017 influenza epidemic, it is necessary to strengthen preventive measures. For now, the situation in our country is under control.

In anticipation cold winter Doctors are redoubling their efforts to study the epidemiological situation in the country and in the world. This is done in order to warn the population about the potential possible viruses and create conditions in time to prevent isolated outbreaks of the disease from turning into a global pandemic.

Epidemiologists suggest that ARVI and seasonal viral flu 2016-2017 will become more active in November-December of this year. Symptoms and signs of A strains will appear slightly later in adults and children (presumably early January 2017). However, doctors are confident that the incidence will not exceed last year’s figures and that each person will be provided with timely health care and necessary services for treatment and speedy recovery.

The only thing doctors ask is not to self-medicate, but to immediately contact specialists, especially in case of exacerbation primary symptoms. This will help to localize the source of infection in time and prevent viruses from spreading further. Therefore, if you suddenly feel unwell, start coughing and sneezing, feel sharp pains in the chest and severe weakness, do not delay treatment, but immediately go to the doctor. Based on the primary symptoms, he will be able to determine in time the nature of the disease, even without fever, and will immediately prescribe the correct treatment. Only then will the virus be quickly defeated and will it not cause any unpleasant or dangerous complications to the body of adults and children.

Flu 2016-2017: virologists' forecast of what kind of flu is expected

For the autumn-winter period 2016-2017, virologists are making disappointing forecast: we are expected not only traditional diseases colds and ARVI, but several types of flu, each of which is dangerous in its own way, both for children and adults. The epidemic season will begin at the end of October and will last almost until spring. The most actively circulating influenza virus strains will be:

H1N1 or swine flu. It is a subtype of the influenza A virus, which is considered one of the most widespread on the planet and causes the largest epidemics, accompanied by big amount victims from fatal. Distributed both among people and among animals and birds. WHO first registered large outbreaks of this disease in June 2009. The virus is transmitted in several ways: aerogenously - from the carrier to the victim during the process of sneezing or coughing; household contact – if personal hygiene rules are not observed (hand washing) after touching objects that have been exposed to elements of the virus that spreads the disease; passive - when eating contaminated pork cooked without proper heat treatment.
H2N2 or Asian flu. It first manifested itself in February 1957 in southern China and caused an epidemic there that was devastating in scale. Over the course of a year, between 1 and 4 million people died from the deadly effects of the virus. At the beginning of spring, the disease spread to Singapore, and already in May the impact of the influenza virus was felt in the border areas Soviet Union. By the end of 1957 in the USSR, the number of patients affected by the Asian flu ranged from 30 to 50 percent of the total population. A slight decline in the disease around the world began only in the fall of 1958, but already in December the pandemic entered its second phase. active phase and covered the Near and Middle East. The virus was curbed only by December 1959, however, as a result of its march around the world, between 1.5 and 2 billion people became ill, and more than 1 million people from different countries died as a result of the pandemic. By 1968, the strain of this virus was finally “suppressed” and since then, vaccination of adults and children against H2N2 has not been carried out and immunity in modern people Those born after 1969 are not affected by this disease. WHO warns everyone about a possible H2N2 epidemic as the cyclical viral manifestations this type has been around for 60 years and 2017 could well be the beginning of a new round of the pandemic.
H3N2 or Hong Kong flu. One of the rather old viruses that killed many people around the world in the late 60s of the last century. Its symptoms are similar to swine flu, but it is considered somewhat less dangerous for people. Most often it affects not the active, working population under 60 years of age, but children whose immune system has not yet fully formed, and older citizens who have a weakened immune system. age-related changes body and all kinds chronic diseases varying degrees gravity. The disease poses a great danger to pregnant women, diabetics, heavy smokers, HIV-infected people and persons in large quantities drinking alcoholic beverages. The highest mortality rate from Hong Kong flu occurs among children under 2 years of age and elderly people 65 years of age or older.

Classic and specific (dangerous) symptoms of influenza 2017 in adults

The bulk of the symptoms of the above strains appear in adults in the same way as the usual seasonal viral flu or ARVI. In almost all cases, the temperature rises, the throat feels sore, itchy persistent cough, and the nose is irritated by a profuse runny nose. The body aches from muscle pain, and the sudden onset of weakness makes you want to lie down, instead of going to work or doing your usual household chores. So unpleasant condition accompanied by severe headaches, constant chills and tachycardia.

Dangerous symptoms of influenza A strains in adults

When different strains of influenza enter the body, the classic manifestations of a cold are aggravated and complicated by additional symptoms. The patient should, without wasting a single minute, contact a specialized doctor for treatment or call an ambulance if:

The temperature remains stable throughout the day at 39-40 degrees and cannot be brought down by any antipyretic drugs. Or if within 4-5 days the temperature does not drop below 38 degrees, despite active treatment, regular intake appropriate medications, vitamins and tablets.
Strong, It's a dull pain, aches and weakness are felt throughout the whole body. Nausea rises in the throat, sudden, unreasonable urge to vomit occurs, the lower abdomen pulls, diarrhea occurs periodically, and when urinating, there is difficulty or there is no urge at all for a long time. All this is accompanied by shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, blue lips, signs of dehydration, cramping of the limbs, confusion and general disorientation.
The disease progresses very actively and the patient’s condition worsens, literally before our eyes, sometimes within a few hours. The incubation period of influenza strains is very short and usually ranges from 2 to 4 days, so it is very important to identify the type of influenza as soon as possible and create all the conditions for a person to receive high-quality treatment of the disease.
Intensive inflammatory processes, immediately following the increase in temperature. With regular seasonal flu, this only results in a runny nose and cough. When the body is affected by strains, the mucous membrane often becomes inflamed, and in severe cases it becomes insensitive to classical antibiotics. viral pneumonia. This is the most dangerous moment, since the complication progresses quickly and in the absence of timely and proper treatment can cause death, moreover, just a day after observing the first symptoms of the complication.

Flu: characteristic signs and symptoms in children

Symptoms and signs characteristic of influenza in children are very similar to the manifestation of the disease in adults. In the same way, children have a sharp rise in temperature, weakness and lethargy, a sore throat and a cough with a runny nose. Flu strains affect young patients even more severely than adults. Children turn out to be especially vulnerable to some of their symptoms, and according to some indicators they are even included in the risk group susceptible to fatalities in the absence of timely and qualified treatment.

At viral flu in preschool and school age The area of the larynx, large bronchi and trachea are primarily affected. It is there that the most global morphological changes occur. IN lung tissue Blood circulation is disrupted, and small hemorrhages occur in the pleura. The younger the child is, the higher the risk of a lesion forming in the lungs. serous inflammation and subsequent development of pneumonia.
Symptoms of category A strains appear in children within 2 days, influenza B - within 3-4 days. The most acute phase is the onset of the disease. At this moment, the temperature “soars” to 39-40°C and it is not always possible to bring it down quickly. Children feel as bad as possible at the end of the first day and sometimes have a serious condition (weakness, joint and muscle pain, increased lethargy) continues into the second day of the disease.
Influenza in children is almost always accompanied by symptoms such as a sharp decline appetite, and especially difficult cases complete refusal from food. Nausea and vomiting, severe headache, insomnia, and, less commonly, delirium and hallucinations are possible.
The following symptoms are most characteristic of the active course of the disease: cough, mucous discharge from the nose, acute sore throat, complications when swallowing, segmental pulmonary edema, pallor skin and increased sweating. In difficult cases it is possible meningeal symptoms, brief fainting, limb cramps and nosebleeds.

Flu 2016-2017 – prevention and treatment in adults and children

Among the preventive procedures that help adults and children protect themselves from the symptoms of 2016-2017 influenza and ARVI, timely vaccination is considered the most effective. It is carried out in early autumn (from September to October). This is done so that by the beginning of a potential epidemic viral infections, the body became stronger and managed to develop immunity. Vaccination of children and adults is carried out using medical supplies containing surface antigens of influenza strains. After 14-30 days, the vaccination enters the active phase and the person becomes practically invulnerable to disease.

For adults and children who, for personal reasons, are unable to get vaccinated against influenza, a special option is offered for the prevention and treatment of primary symptoms: regular use of immunomodulators, strict adherence to personal hygiene rules, restrictions on being in public places, use of personal protective equipment, etc.

If, despite all precautions, children or adults develop primary signs and symptoms of the disease, you should immediately consult a doctor to obtain a qualified drug treatment. When all the necessary medications are prescribed, they will need to be taken in strict accordance with the doctor’s instructions. In addition, it is necessary to reduce contact with people to a minimum, limit (or completely cancel) any physical exercise, maintain bed rest (even when the illness passes without fever), eat well and take vitamins. These rules are equally relevant for both adults and children and are mandatory.