Influenza (PDF)
What is influenza?
Influenza is a serious illness that affects the airways. There are many forms of the virus, and each year scientists try to predict which is most likely to cause an epidemic. Many people use the term “flu” for common illnesses like head colds. However, influenza is much more serious, and the symptoms more severe. Influenza symptoms can include: fever, headache, fatigue, muscular aches, sore throat, dry cough, a runny nose and watery eyes. Influenza is more than a cold; it generally requires 2-4 days in bed, and full recovery may take up to 3-4 weeks for some people. Influenza is generally spread by the coughs and sneezes of an infected person. The infection begins in the nose and throat, but if the virus reaches further down into the lungs, there is a risk of bronchitis and pneumonia.
Who is at risk?
Almost anyone can get influenza, however there are a number of 'high risk' groups, including people with asthma and other lung diseases. Viral infections can lead to increased asthma symptoms, and other serious complications like pneumonia. If you are over 65, you may also be at a higher risk. People with certain long term medical conditions also have a greater risk of complications, which may require hospitalisation, and can even cause death.
How can I prevent influenza?
Vaccination is the only effective way to protect against influenza. Vaccination is especially recommended for:
· Adults, teenagers, or children over 6 months with moderate or severe asthma
· People over 65 years of age, or indigenous people over 50
· People with chronic illnesses including respiratory conditions, heart disease or kidney disease, and;
· Residents and staff of nursing homes and long term care facilities.
The influenza vaccine takes about 14 days to provide the greatest protection. Talk to your doctor about getting vaccinated in autumn, before the influenza season arrives. Annual vaccination is necessary to provide continued protection against newer forms of the virus.
There may be minor side effects such as soreness at the injection site. Although some people may experience flu-like symptoms after receiving the vaccine, the vaccine is made of dead virus components, and therefore these symptoms are not influenza. Other side effects, such as allergic reactions, are rare.
For further advice on the influenza vaccine, speak to your GP or pharmacist. You can also visit www.health.gov.au or www.nationalasthma.org.au.