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Something we think that you should know about:
Influenza (Flu)
Just the Flu
Influenza is a potentially serious illness that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment because people still die from the flu. From October through April, people of all ages can get an upper respiratory viral infection caused by the Type A and Type B influenza viruses called “The Flu”
The following are Symptoms of the Flu:
• Sudden onset of high fever, 102 o F to 104 o F, lasting up to 5 days.
• Dry cough lasting up to 3 days, then productive (wet) cough lasting up to 7 days. Cough may last four up to 2 weeks
• Headache and muscle pain, lasting up to 4 days
• Red eyes and nasal congestion, lasting up to 2 weeks.
• Fatigue lasting up to 3 weeks
• Vomiting and diarrhea are unusual
Flu-Like Illness
Other similar infections may be caused by a multitude of viruses and are called "flu-like" illness. Sore throat, congestion, "laryngitis", muscle aches, fever, and dry cough are common symptoms, but the severity is generally less than that seen with influenza.
Treatment
You can use decongestants such as pseudoephedrine (Sudafed or others) for congestion and runny nose. You can gargle with warm salt water (1 tsp salt in 8 oz. water—spit it out, because swallowing salt water will make you nauseous) regularly to help a sore throat, and use ibuprofen (Motrin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol) for pain, aches and fever. Bed rest is important as your body must build antibodies to fight off the virus. Plenty of fluids are also important to help prevent dehydration and other complications. You will dehydrate rapidly if you do not take in adequate fluids.
Antiviral medications (Amantadine and Rimantidine) may be prescribed for influenza. These medications help prevent spread of the infection and shorten its course, while preventing complications.
If you have flu, a “wait and see” approach is not wise. Effective treatment can only be started after a definitive diagnosis is made within the first 48 hours from the onset of the symptoms
Do I Need Antibiotics?
Contrary to the firm beliefs of many people, antibiotics do not help a viral infection, and may be dangerous. Also, they lead to the development of resistant infections, which are very difficult to treat. A "secondary" bacterial infection, like tonsillitis, bronchitis, or pneumonia may occur, however, and may require antibiotics.
Things to Watch For:
Watch for uncontrollable fever, the inability to swallow, lethargy, severe headache or stiff neck, a cough which is productive of yellow or green phlegm, severe vomiting, or symptoms that last over 2-3 days. On occasion, a more serious illness mimics a flu-like infection, so do NOT ignore worsening symptoms. If other symptoms develop, be sure to notify your doctor, as additional treatment may be necessary.
If you are doing well, plan to follow-up as directed.
And remember… Prevent the flu by getting a flu shot!!!
These are available at the Student Health and Wellness Center each year, usually beginning in late October.
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