Influenza

Question 1

What is the pharmacological management of influenza?

Answer 1

Antiviral therapy with neuroaminidase inhibitors like oseltamivir or zanamivir but this must be within 48 hours of symptom onset

Question 2

What investigation can be done for influenza?

Answer 2

For patients with severe symptoms or complications, rapid PCR and laboratory testing can be used

Question 3

What are the risk factors for severe influenza infection?

Answer 3

Hypospenism
Chronic disease
Immunosuppression
Pregnancy
Mrobd obesity

Question 4

What are symptoms of influenza that differentiate this from other URTI?

Answer 4

DRY cough, sore throat, rhinitis and fever

Question 5

When is a CXR indicated?

Answer 5

Cough persisting over 3 weeks
Positive findings on auscultation