Influenza Flashcards
1
Q
What type of influenza is most likely to cause a pandemic?
A
Influenza A.
2
Q
Influenza is either an RNA virus or a DNA virus.
A
RNA virus (also called retroviruses, they have RNA as their genetic material.
3
Q
Who is eligible for a free flu vaccine on the NHS?
A
Aged 65 or over. Young children. Pregnant women. Healthcare workers and carers. Chronic health conditions like asthma, COPD, heart failure.
4
Q
What are the common symptoms of flu?
A
Fever. Lethargy and fatigue. Loss of appetite. Muscle and joint aches. Dry cough.
5
Q
What type of lab test might be performed to confirm the diagnosis of influenza?
A
Polymerase chain reaction.
6
Q
How is flu treated and prevented?
A
Prevented with yearly vaccines that target many different strains of influenza.
Treat with neuraminidase inhibitors:
Oral oseltamivir twice daily for 5 days.
Inhaled zanamivir twice daily for 5 days.
7
Q
What strain of influenza is usually associated with smaller localised spreads?
A
Type B.
