Influenza

Question 1

How does the influenza virus work

Answer 1

single stranded RNA genome

H- antigen helps binding and entry into tracheobronchial epithelial cells

N-antigen helps virus to escape

typically occurs in winter time

Question 1

What is influenza

Answer 1

acute resp tract infection caused by seasonal influenza A/B virus

Question 2

What are key diagnostic factors of influenza

Answer 2

fever, malaise, myalgia
cough
sore throat
unvaccinated
winter
cervical lymphadenopathy

Question 3

What are risk factors for influenza

Answer 3

age >65 or 6 months to 5 years
CKD
Chronic resp condition
pregnancy
diabetes
immunocompromised
healthcare workers

Question 4

What investigations are required for influenza

Answer 4

clinical diagnosis
can do viral culture - takes few days

Question 5

How is influenza managed

Answer 5

bed rest
antipyretics
simple analgesia

consider antiviral therapy in high risk groups , only effective in first 48 hrs from onset of symptoms

if hospitalised – then antiviral therapy