Flu (influenza)

1 May 2021 | 5 Min. Reading Time

Overview

Flu or influenza is a general illness with an often severe course which is transmitted by influenza viruses. It occurs almost exclusively during the winter months and is accompanied by fever, coughing, sniffles, headache and joint pains. General hygiene measures (e.g. washing the hands) can have a preventive effect. If flu symptoms occur, bed rest is recommended.

Symptoms

General

Occurs almost exclusively during the winter months
Symptoms begin a few hours to two days after infection
Course: 33% asymptomatic, 33% mild symptoms, 33% typical flu symptoms
Duration: 5 to 7 days, possibly continued weakness/fatigue for another 1 to 2 weeks

Typical symptoms

Sudden onset of a general feeling of being very unwell
Rapid rise in fever (>38 °C)
Chills
Headaches and joint pains
Sniffles and coughing
Sore throat and pain when swallowing, hoarseness
Fatigue and exhaustion, more rarely dizziness
Vomiting, stomach pain and diarrhoea (particularly in children)

Complications

Bacterial infection can also occur (“superinfection”)
- Tonsillitis, middle ear infection and sinusitis
- Pneumonia
- Myocarditis or meningitis
Particularly at risk (increased mortality)
- Persons with a weakened immune system
- Chronic diseases (lungs, cardiovascular system, kidneys)
- Older people in general, small children

Causes and treatment

Cause

Pathogens: influenza viruses A and B
Transmission:
- Droplet infection (talking, sneezing, coughing)
- Smear infection (e.g. kissing, door knobs and handrails)

Further treatment by your doctor / in hospital

Possible tests

Physical examination (usually sufficient)
Identification of virus, if necessary (nasal/throat swabs)
Blood test

Possible therapies

Antipyretic (i.e. fever-reducing) drugs
If disease is severe: hospitalisation
Antiviral medication: pre-existing conditions, pregnancy, risk or suspicion that flu will take a severe course

What can I do myself?

High fluid intake
Bed rest
Cough up phlegm (don’t suppress the urge to cough)
Follow a healthy lifestyle
- Balanced, vitamin-rich diet
- Exercise and sufficient relaxation
- Avoid the following factors: sleep deprivation, stress, too much alcohol, nicotine
Household remedies
- Fever-reducing: calf wraps (e.g. with vinegar water), cold compresses on the groin
- For coughing and sniffles: chamomile and steam inhalations
- Throat infections: gargle solutions (e.g. chamomile oil extract)
Don't take antiviral medication as a preventive measure (no effect)
Ensure that there is enough humidity in the room (e.g. air the room regularly for 5 to 10 minutes)
Self-protection when caring for a flu patient (see below)
Flu vaccination:
- Recommended for: persons with a higher risk of complications; persons who have professional or private contact with them
- More information: impfengegengrippe.ch

Hygiene measures

Hand hygiene
- Wash hands regularly with soap and water
- Wash hands every time after coughing or sneezing (to protect others)
- If there is no soap: use hand sanitiser
Coughing and sneezing:
- Into a paper tissue, throw away immediately after use
- Into the crook of the arm if a tissue isn’t immediately available
Social contact during epidemics:
- Avoid large gatherings of people
- Restrict social contact to the essential
- Keep your distance (at least one metre) from others
- Don’t shake hands, kiss hello or hug people
- Stay at home if you have symptoms
Face masks: can provide some protection against droplet infection

When to see a doctor?

Fever of more than 40°, for more than 24 hours
Shortness of breath or pain when breathing
Coughing up pus
Middle ear infection and sinusitis
Disorientation and stiff neck
Flu symptoms with:
- Pre-existing chronic illnesses, in particular of the lungs, heart and circulatory system
- Older people and people with weakened immune systems