Chico Influenza Update
02/02/11 20:10
We have begun to see sporadic cases of influenza (the flu) in Chico the past couple of weeks. I recently posted a detailed post on flu prevention on 1-19-2011. Both influenza A and B have been reported, I know of at least three cases of influenza B that have been seen in our office. I have not heard confirmation as to whether or not the A strain that has been reported is the H1N1 “swine” flu that came through last fall or not.
The main thing to be aware of is that there are anti-viral medictions that can lessen the symptoms and shorten the duration of the flu. This is particularly important for people with high risk conditions who did not get the vaccine this year if they display symptoms of influenza.
High fever with back and thigh aches, cough, runny nose, sore throat and possibly vomiting or diarrhea are concerning for possibly be influenza. If anti-viral treatment is going to work it needs to be started ideally in the first 24 hours after symptoms start. Treatment after 48 hours is unlikely to help at all. Antivirals given to people living in the same household as someone with documented influenza may help prevent them from getting it as well.
So, if you are concerned that you or one of your family members has influenza, be seen by a physician quickly so that either they can be treated, or at least made more comfortable while it runs its course.
The main thing to be aware of is that there are anti-viral medictions that can lessen the symptoms and shorten the duration of the flu. This is particularly important for people with high risk conditions who did not get the vaccine this year if they display symptoms of influenza.
High fever with back and thigh aches, cough, runny nose, sore throat and possibly vomiting or diarrhea are concerning for possibly be influenza. If anti-viral treatment is going to work it needs to be started ideally in the first 24 hours after symptoms start. Treatment after 48 hours is unlikely to help at all. Antivirals given to people living in the same household as someone with documented influenza may help prevent them from getting it as well.
So, if you are concerned that you or one of your family members has influenza, be seen by a physician quickly so that either they can be treated, or at least made more comfortable while it runs its course.
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