Influenza

Influenza (also known as seasonal flu) is a highly infectious
illness caused by a flu virus.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

Symptoms of Influenza appear suddenly, unlike the common cold,
where less-severe symptoms appear gradually. The gap between
exposure to the flu virus and development of symptoms is 2 to 3
days. A person becomes infectious approximately one day before the
onset of symptoms. Acute symptoms last for 3 to 7 days with
complete recovery taking up to three weeks. Symptoms
include: 

• Fever and/or chills. Temperature usually reaches 38 degrees
  C/100 degrees F and can rise to 41 degrees C/105.8 degrees F. (The
  common cold usually involves a small increase in temperature.)
• Body aches and pains which cause the whole body to ache,
  particularly the joints. (In the case of the common cold, aching is
  mild and usually confined to the legs.) 
• Fatigue. 
• Cough and an extremely sore throat. (The common cold involves a
  less severe, “scratchy” throat.)
• Headache which is usually severe. (Minor headache is associated
  with the common cold.).
   

Influenza usually lasts for 1-2 weeks, with chest problems
being common. In contrast, people usually recover quite quickly
from the common cold.

Complications of Influenza include pneumonia, sinusitis,
bronchitis and otitis media in children.

SYMPTOMS IN CHILDREN

It is advisable that parents of sick children should seek
medical attention early if children have respiratory illness such
as cough or difficulty breathing with fever and lethargy.

TREATMENT OPTIONS

Always consult your Doctor for diagnosis and advice. This
information is in no way intended to replace the advice of a
medical practitioner. 

Prevention 

The Influenza Vaccine is available for high-risk persons. See
the Influenza Vaccine topic.

Treatment – Drugs 

There are drugs available from your Doctor for the treatment
of all strains of Influenza A and B. These drugs must be taken
within 48 hours of symptom onset to be effective. These drugs can
reduce the severity of symptoms by almost half and reduce secondary
complications by up to 50%.

Treatment – Other 

• Bed rest is recommended.
• Drink plenty of fluids.
• Antipyretics (drugs that reduce fever)/analgesics (drugs that
  relieve pain) provide relief from fever, headache and muscle pains.
  Aspirin should not be given to children with Influenza due to the
  possible risk of developing Reye’s syndrome.
• Decongestants can provide relief from nasal obstruction or
  catarrh.
   

Aspirin should not be given to children under 16 years of age
unless specified by a Doctor.

PREVENTION

Vaccination against Influenza is recommended for certain
groups at risk. Discuss Influenza vaccination with your Doctor and
see the Influenza Vaccine topic on the Healthpoint for more
information. Other preventative measures include; avoiding people
infected with the Flu, washing hands regularly and maintaining a
healthy lifestyle.

 

The seasonal flu vaccine has been suspended for children 5
years of age and under. See the Influenza Vaccine Suspension topic
for further information.

VITAMINS/MINERALS/HERBS

Supplements may only be of value if dietary intake is
inadequate. 

• Vitamin A, beta carotene, vitamin C with bioflavonoids and
  vitamin E are associated with healthy immune function. 
• Zinc is also an important element of the immune process and is
  thought to work in conjunction with many of the vitamins mentioned
  above.
• Selenium deficiency may cause longer and more severe influenza
  infections. 
• Echinacea, garlic and golden seal are reputed to have
  anti-bacterial properties, along with immune enhancing
  activity. 
• Horseradish and elecampane may assist in resolving mucus.
• Chamomile, liquorice, yarrow, boneset, peppermint and
  elderflower are herbs which make soothing teas reputed to ease the
  symptoms of colds and flu.

AROMATHERAPY

The listed essential oils are suggested for the temporary
relief of the symptoms of Influenza. The most specific oils are
shown in capitals.

Aniseed, Basil, Citronella, EUCALYPTUS, Grapefruit, Lavender,
Lemon, Lime, Myrrh, Orange, Peppermint, PINE, TEA TREE, THYME

Application

MASSAGE: Blend any single listed essential oil or combination
of several essential oils – 5 drops (total) to 10mL (1/3 fl oz)
vegetable carrier oil ie: Sweet Almond, Apricot Kernel. Apply twice
daily to chest, upper back and throat with gentle massage.

STEAM INHALATION: In a bowl containing one litre of steaming water
add 5 drops (total) of essential oil; cover head with towel and
inhale while leaning over bowl. Keep eyes closed.

VAPORISATION: Add 5 drops (total) single essential oil or
combination of several essential oils listed to water in oil
burner. 

The following recommendations are for an adult. For infants over 3
months and up to 2 years use 1/4 dose i.e.: 1 drop to 10ml (1/3 fl
oz) ; children 2-12 years and during pregnancy use 1/2 dose.

PHARMACIST’S ADVICE

Ask your Pharmacist for advice.

1. See the Influenza Diet and Influenza Vaccine topics on the
   Healthpoint.
2. Have adequate rest.
3. Avoid smoking. Ask your Pharmacist about the Quit
   programme.
4. Increase fluid intake.
5. A variety of cold medications will help relieve the symptoms of
   Influenza. Ask your Pharmacist for advice.
6. Using a germicidal handwash can help to prevent the spread of
   infection to others.
7. A suitable pain relieversuch as paracetamol or ibuprofen might
   be suggested to provide relief from fever, headache and muscle
   pains. 
8. Decongestants can provide relief from nasal obstruction or
   catarrh. 
9. If dietary intake is inadequate supplements may be of benefit.
   Ask your Pharmacist for advice and see the Vitamins/Minerals/Herbs
   section in this topic.