What a powerful virus this year. Influenza virus: symptoms, prevention and treatment

Winter is preparing for us not only New Year's holidays and winter fun, but also another epidemic of influenza and ARVI. And while an ordinary viral infection is mild, the flu can lead to death. And the sooner you start treating it, the better prognosis. This is why it is so important to know the differences between influenza and a regular ARVI or cold.

This 2017, an epidemic of a new strain of influenza virus A/Hong Kong/4801/2014 (H3N2) - “Hong Kong flu” – is expected in Russia. Most of its symptoms are typical of the flu, but there are some peculiarities.

Doctors seriously fear that the H3N2 virus A/Hong Kong/4801/2014 will lead to a real pandemic that can spread throughout our country.

This happened in 1968, when a flu caused by a virus very similar to H3N2 raged in Hong Kong and in several other countries around the world. Due to the severe course of the disease and complications, many deaths occurred from influenza.

To avoid this, treatment for influenza must begin on the first day of illness. This is why it is so important to know the differences between influenza and ARVI.

First, a few words about the terms:

• ARVI - acute respiratory viral infection
• ARI is an acute respiratory disease, that is, the cause is not indicated here - a virus or bacteria
• Influenza is an acute respiratory viral infection caused by the influenza virus. It is placed in a separate group due to its severe course, serious complications and the possibility of death.

The first signs of Hong Kong flu appear 1-2 days after infection. These symptoms are, in principle, the same as for other types of influenza, although there are a number of features.

Differences between Hong Kong flu and ARVI

How Hong Kong flu differs from other types of flu

More often than with other types of influenza, nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, and diarrhea occur. Complications also occur more often.

According to analyzes of the pandemic half a century ago, the Hong Kong flu often led to severe and dangerous complications:

• myocarditis;
• severe pneumonia;
• encephalitis;
• meningitis;
• development of shock.

In addition, tracheitis, bronchitis, otitis media and sinusitis often develop. H3N2 influenza can also have long-term complications in the form of liver dysfunction, disruption of the pancreas, and the kidneys and endocrine glands are often affected.

Hong Kong flu is especially dangerous for:

• children of the first two years of life
• people over 65 years old
• suffering from chronic diseases of the lungs, heart, kidneys, liver, blood
• patients with immunodeficiencies
• patients with diabetes
• pregnant women

They have more high risk development of complications. The rest also need to be on alert, since Russians have no immunity to this disease, so anyone can get sick.

Symptoms of Hong Kong flu in adults

The table above shows the differences between influenza and ARVI. Now I will describe a typical picture of symptoms in an adult.

The onset of the disease is abrupt, against the background full health within 1-2 hours the following appear:

• Strong headache
• temperature rises above 39, chills
• pain appears in the muscles, joints, back, especially the lower back
• nausea, abdominal pain
• There may be vomiting and diarrhea
• the person has severe weakness,
• it hurts to move your eyes, bright lights irritate you
• redness of the eyes
• no appetite
• maybe insomnia
• on the first day there is no cough or runny nose

From the second day of illness appear

• runny nose, often just nasal congestion, without copious discharge and frequent sneezing
• dry painful cough, chest pain along the trachea
• the back of the throat is swollen and red
• all previous symptoms persist

Of course, not all signs may be present, especially with a mild course of the disease.

This condition lasts 3-4 days. If there are no complications, gradually all symptoms begin to decrease: body temperature normalizes, well-being improves, runny nose, sore throat, cough go away.

Increased fatigue, weakness, headache, and insomnia may persist for 2-3 weeks after the flu.

If complications develop, recovery is much delayed, and in severe cases the disease can result in death.

Symptoms of Hong Kong flu in children

From the moment of infection to the first signs of influenza, it can take from 2 hours to several days. The onset of the disease, as a rule, is always acute: body temperature rises to 39°C, chills, weakness, general weakness, dizziness, headaches and pain in the joints, muscles and bones (aches) appear. Children may have dim catarrhal symptoms as rare cough, runny nose, mild pain when swallowing.

That is, children will have all the same symptoms as adults, but there are a number of features.

• Vomiting and diarrhea are more common
• At high temperatures, seizures may develop
• in children with allergic diseases there is a risk of developing airway spasms.

All of these manifestations are signs of intoxication, because the influenza virus releases toxins that act on the vascular and nervous system child.

Based on the severity of intoxication in children, there are 4 forms of influenza:

• mild – mild symptoms;
• moderate – there are all signs of intoxication;
• heavy - to general symptoms influenza is accompanied by severe hyperthermia (up to 40°C and above), disturbances of consciousness, delirium, hallucinations, vomiting, convulsions, signs of bacterial infection, pulmonary edema etc.;
• hypertoxic form - symptoms of meningoencephalitis, hyperthermic and hemorrhagic syndromes.

The last 2 forms occur in children under one year of age, or in those weakened by concomitant diseases (hypotrophy, anemia, vitamin deficiency, malformations, bronchopulmonary diseases, immunodeficiencies, receiving immunosuppressive therapy etc.).

Infants cannot complain of pain, so parents should be especially careful. Characteristic symptoms diseases:

• heat;
• convulsions;
• increased lethargy;
• constant regurgitation and vomiting;
• refusal to breastfeed (formula);
• loss of consciousness.

In children under one year of age, the onset of influenza may not be pronounced, but gradual. The first symptoms are general weakness, breast refusal, drowsiness, or, conversely, restlessness of the child. After this, hyperthermia develops. Cough and runny nose may be absent.

The course of influenza in infants, despite the mild onset of the disease, is often severe. Children more often develop bacterial infection: otitis media, pneumonia, sinusitis, myocarditis, nosebleeds, etc.

Treatment of Hong Kong flu in adults

When the first flu symptoms appear, you should stay home. If you continue to go to work, this will lead to a protracted course of the disease, the development of complications and infection of others. In addition, you cannot engage in self-diagnosis and self-medication - only a doctor can make a correct diagnosis, identify complications in the early period and appoint correct treatment.

You should call immediately ambulance, If:

• Body temperature above 40C
• Fever lasts more than 3 days
• There is no improvement after 7-10 days of illness, or there was slight relief, a drop in temperature, and then a new wave of fever, cough, etc.
• If shortness of breath occurs and severe pain in the chest when breathing
• Disorientation, loss of consciousness, or altered consciousness
• Convulsions that developed for the first time or convulsions due to fever.
• Rash on the legs or buttocks in the form of fresh purple bruises (meningococcus under the guise of ARVI)
• Constant vomiting and diarrhea, this is especially dangerous in children
• Intense facial pain and severe headaches

Once again, the sooner you start treating the flu, the faster you will recover and there will be fewer complications. When self-medicating, you can miss the first signs of serious complications.

Treatment of Hong Kong flu mild degree carried out at home.

The patient is hospitalized if:

• severe course of the disease;
• there are complications, such as pneumonia;
• all pregnant women;
• children under one year old;
• people over 65 years of age;
• patients with severe chronic diseases(diabetes mellitus, bronchial asthma, kidney disease, heart failure - that is, those who have a higher risk of complications).

In case of flu, even mild severity, during periods of elevated temperature, it is necessary to observe bed rest. You also need to drink more liquid: plain water, juices, compotes, teas, mineral water(alkaline). Food should be light and warm, preferably a dairy-vegetable diet.

Treatment is prescribed by a doctor and usually includes antiviral drugs. They act on the cause of the flu and block its further reproduction. The sooner you start taking drugs from this group, the better the effect will be.

Symptomatic treatment is aimed at eliminating specific symptoms of the disease and is selected individually in each case. specific case. This includes the following drugs:

• antipyretics - paracetamol, ibuclin, nurofen, combination drugs tera flu type;
• remedies for sore throat in various forms - lozenges, sprays, rinses;
• Cough medicines. If the cough is dry and debilitating, the doctor may prescribe an antitussive drug, but if phlegm comes out, an expectorant;
• vasoconstrictor nasal drops as needed;
• Antihistamines. They relieve swelling of the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract, which makes it easier for the patient to breathe;
• also, depending on the complications, other drugs are prescribed, such as antibiotics;
• in severe cases, intravenous infusion of drugs is performed to relieve intoxication.

Treatment of Hong Kong flu in children

Children under one year of age are hospitalized for severe and hypertoxic forms of influenza, as well as for complications and concomitant diseases, for example, bronchial asthma or diabetes mellitus, heart defects..

The regime during fever is bed rest. A dairy-vegetable diet is better. The diet should contain many foods containing vitamins. If a child has no appetite, there is no need to force him to eat. It is recommended to drink plenty of fluids: plain water, juices, compotes, teas, mineral waters (alkaline).

The drugs are prescribed in the same groups as for adults. Sometimes, due to vomiting and nausea, antipyretic suppositories are used; in severe cases, intravenous or intramuscular administration of drugs is carried out.

Whatever the condition of a child with the flu, only a doctor can prescribe treatment. All drugs have contraindications, various shapes release and dosage, which can be understood by a person without medical education difficult. Only a doctor can identify complications in early stages and prescribe appropriate treatment.

I hope the information in the article was useful to you.

Take care of your friends and acquaintances - click on the social buttons. networks. Perhaps this will save someone's life.

From the latest news, in 2019 we can expect several varieties of the influenza virus - Michigan, Hong Kong and Brisbane. Let's try to separate truth from fiction by assessing the real risks of the disease, highlighting the symptoms, discussing treatment, medications, prevention and deciding whether to get vaccinated.

Flu epidemic in Moscow 2019

The seasonal flu epidemic in Moscow traditionally begins in November with the onset of cold weather, gains strength in January, reaches its maximum in February, declines in March, and gradually fades away by May.

According to statistics, patients with influenza make up less than a tenth of a percent of total number sick with ARVI.

In 2018, it was discovered in Moscow increased level incidence of the H3N2 virus, but this does not indicate a serious threat - journalists writing news often exaggerate. However, it is still necessary to know what you are dealing with.

What is the flu

This is an infectious disease of the respiratory tract, part of the group of acute respiratory viral infections (ARVI), caused by a virus from the Ortomyxoviridae group.

The name of the disease in Russian most likely has French roots and comes from the word “grippe”, which also denotes the name of this disease.

What are the types of flu?

Viruses are divided into three types (Influenza A, B, C):

• A - provokes the most severe forms of the disease in humans, affects animals and birds, periodically causes epidemics and pandemics
• B - occurs only in humans, usually affects children; outbreaks of this type of virus often precede epidemics of type A
• C - as a rule, the disease proceeds without serious complications, epidemics do not occur, isolated cases are observed in children and people with weakened immune systems

How dangerous is the flu?

The biggest danger is complications. The most common of all is pneumonia. The rapid development of pneumonia is especially unpleasant; complications can develop after the first day.

In second place are cardiovascular diseases.

Main risk groups: young children, the elderly and people with weakened immune systems. For those who suffer from chronic diseases such as bronchial asthma and diabetes mellitus, you need to be especially careful.

No less unpleasant can be inflammation of the middle ear - otitis and other ENT diseases, such as sinusitis, rhinitis, pharyngitis, bronchitis.

Therefore, under no circumstances should you try to carry the flu on your feet. If symptoms are obvious, it is better to call a doctor at home. This will reduce the risk of complications and expose you to infection. minimal amount the people around you.

Main flu symptoms

• Heat
• Headache
• Muscle pain
• Feverish state
• Cough
• Vomit
• Diarrhea

The difference between influenza and other acute respiratory viral infections

The main difference between influenza and other acute respiratory viral infections and common cold lies in the consequences. Even if you do not take complications into account, after the flu it takes longer rehabilitation period, the immune system suffers more.

Get off with one week, unless of course you have light form, most likely it won't work. A feeling of malaise and rapid fatigue may persist for up to two to three weeks after all symptoms disappear.

By differences in symptoms, since influenza does not have obvious specific signs, clearly recognize it without special research impossible. Indirectly, the flu will be indicated by: a very rapid deterioration in health and an increase in temperature to 38-40 degrees, severe aches throughout the body, pain in the temples and eyeballs, sweat, chills, photophobia, often vomiting and diarrhea.

How long is the incubation period?

The incubation period for influenza usually lasts 3 to 5 days. It all depends on the host’s immunity and the specific strain of the virus. At strong immunity incubation period can last up to 7 days.

When and during what period can you become infected with the flu from a patient?

A person becomes infectious from the first hours after becoming a carrier of the virus - that is, almost immediately, even if he does not have obvious signs diseases. The maximum is usually reached one day after symptoms appear. After five to seven days of illness, the concentration of the virus in the exhaled air is greatly reduced, and the danger to others is correspondingly reduced.

The greatest contribution to the spread of the virus is made by patients with subclinical, erased forms of the disease: they manage to infect the most big number of people.

How does flu infection occur?

Basically, infection occurs by airborne droplets. Much less often - contact, through handshakes and kisses. Viruses spread not only through sneezing and coughing, but also simply when a patient talks two to three meters around.

Since susceptibility to the virus is very high, protect yourself with the usual gauze bandage, being in the same room with the patient, most likely it will not work. The virus can persist in indoor air for up to a day; it remains on objects for up to 3-4 days.

How to treat the flu, what medicine to choose

There are two news - one good and one bad.

The good news is that a free and effective defense mechanism against viruses is always with us - our immunity. It just needs to be constantly kept in good condition: exercise, give up cigarettes, eat right, and allocate enough time for sleep. Keyword here - constantly.

The bad news is effective medicines there is no anti-influenza virus. More precisely, there are medicines, there are even quite a lot of them, but only a few actually help overcome the virus. Some previously quite effective drugs are simply outdated and no longer work against modern strains, others have never worked. The most famous of the modern antiviral agents, with proven effectiveness - Relenza and Tamiflu.

However, it is still better to refrain from taking such drugs on your own. If you suspect you have the flu, you should consult a doctor, as there is a risk of complications, and antiviral drugs may not work against them. Any antibiotics to treat bacterial complications should also only be prescribed by a doctor. You can only alleviate the symptoms on your own: put drops in your nose, take a drug to cough up phlegm, and bring down the temperature.

It should be remembered that you do not need to buy any domestic drugs “against the virus” or to boost immunity, especially those widely advertised on television; their effectiveness has not been proven. They most likely will not cause damage to health, but this is wasted money - just as in the case of homeopathic medicines. Of course, unless it is a matter of faith. Those who believe in homeopathy can purchase their own medicine.

For viral infections, Aspirin should not be used due to the risk of bleeding. To lower the temperature, you can use Paracetamol, but only at temperatures above 38.5C.

Flu prevention

Before you get sick, there are three things you can do to prevent it:

1. boost immunity. This means taking care of your body, eating right, exercising, getting enough sleep and not overindulging.
2. avoid crowded places such as shops and public transport during a seasonal epidemic
3. get vaccinated. It's more reliable way, although not canceling the first two points

Experts do not recommend using any dietary supplements or medications for preventive purposes - in the case of an influenza infection, this does not make sense, and you will save money.

Who should get the flu vaccine?

We will not consider the question of why to vaccinate, since the effectiveness of vaccinations has long been proven. Over many years of vaccination, sufficient statistics have been accumulated: the incidence of disease after vaccination is reduced by 70-90%.

Of course, there is always a chance of infection with a new strain of the virus, against which the existing vaccine will be powerless. Plus, there are negligible risks of receiving a low-quality vaccine or some other infection along with the vaccination. Opinion official medicine Now it’s clear - if there are no obvious contraindications, such as exacerbation of chronic diseases, then it is recommended for everyone to be vaccinated, especially children and those who are in contact with big amount of people.

When to get a flu shot

Typically, vaccination is done once a year in the fall before the onset of cold weather. Annual vaccination is required because a universal vaccine has not yet been created, and you need to protect yourself from constantly changing viruses. It’s too late to get vaccinated during an epidemic, to prepare immune system it takes about two weeks.

The worst epidemic (pandemic) in history

Most viruses identified in pigs belong to the H1N1 subtype. The infamous “Spanish flu”, which at the beginning of the last century destroyed 50 million people, also belonged to the same type. Losses in the First World War were significantly lower at that time.

To be fair, it is worth noting that people did not die from the virus itself, but from complications in the form of pneumonia, which in our time is very effectively treated with antibiotics.

Is influenza transmitted from animals to humans?

As a rule, no, cats and dogs suffer from some infections, and people from others. Unfortunately, there are some types of viruses that can be transmitted between different types has been proven by scientists. Swine and bird flu got their names precisely for this reason.

How dangerous is the infection that can be contracted from animals these days?

When infected with the most deadly bird flu H5N1 at first had a mortality rate of 60%. Since its discovery in 1997, 650 people have been infected with that first strain of the virus. Afterwards, the pathogenicity of the “avian flu” sharply declined, and now the once-deadly virus cannot be distinguished from ordinary flu, which can occur with almost no symptoms, like a mild cold.

Last major outbreak swine flu H1N1 was reported in Mexico and the United States in 2009. This virus was not so deadly: out of 255,716 people infected, 2,627 people died, panic was caused by the rapid spread and fear of the emergence of new, more aggressive strains - it was the largest pandemic in recent years.

At the moment, the danger of death from bird and swine flu does not in any way exceed the danger from viruses transmitted only from person to person.

Can meat from animals infected with the influenza virus be dangerous?

At heat treatment The influenza virus, as well as all similar organisms, is guaranteed to die. When boiled, the virus lives for less than a minute; at 50 degrees, it will not survive even 60 minutes. However, it tolerates the cold very well; it can wait in the refrigerator for a long time. Fried or boiled meat can be consumed without any risk.

Why do flu epidemics in Moscow occur in winter?

Regarding the sharp increase in the number of diseases in winter period in Moscow there are several theories, which, by the way, do not contradict each other at all:

• Most people's immunity in winter is weakened, as the body receives less sun and vitamins
• With the onset of cold weather, people are more likely to stay in closed, poorly ventilated areas, which contributes to the spread of viruses
• recent research by American scientists suggests that the virus feels more comfortable in conditions of low humidity, which occurs with a decrease in temperature in winter

The number of Russian regions where the epidemiological threshold for influenza and ARVI was exceeded increased significantly in mid-March. Now there are already 8 regions of the country where the incidence rate exceeds the norm. Doctors believe that in the second wave of the epidemic, the population is suffering from influenza caused by the type B virus.

Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug and Trans-Urals

An epidemic has been declared on the territory of Ugra: doctors are observing sudden jump by the number of people who went to the hospital with influenza or ARVI. Only compared to the second week of March, in the period from 13 to 19, the number of cases increased by 21%. Statistics for March 21 indicate that the permissible epidemiological threshold has already been passed and exceeds 17%.

A total of 15,461 patients with identified ARVI are counted, of which 74 are cases of influenza infection. The most a difficult situation the incidence rate is observed in Nizhnevartovsk, followed by the number of sick patients in Nefteyugansk, Surgut, Khanty-Mansiysk. Schoolchildren and young children are at risk.

In Nizhnevartovsk, the increase in incidence was 30%, the number of cases of ARVI was 3,759 people, 3,400 of them were children and adolescents. 4 patients are being treated for influenza, 2 of them are minors. In addition, there are 19 people hospitalized in the infectious diseases department.

So far, Olga Elaeva, a representative of the local Rospotrebnadzor, says that the situation remains stable, there is no quarantine.

Kuban and Southern Russia

In the Krasnodar region, there are 60 patients who have been diagnosed with influenza. In the regional capital itself, 44 cases were recorded. The disease develops due to the activity of the type B virus (the same is observed in Khanty-Mansi Autonomous Okrug).

Over the past week, 2,500 people with suspected viral infection visited clinics; the number of children under 14 years of age was 44%.

According to statistics for the last 7 days, there is no group incidence of ARVI or influenza in the region. The epidemiological threshold has not been exceeded.

Doctors note that 2 million 579 thousand people were vaccinated in the region, the number of children was 857 thousand.

Tula region

In Tula and the cities closest to it, an increase in incidence was recorded for the period from March 13 to March 19. However, despite the increase in the number of cases of influenza and acute respiratory viral infections, the epidemiological threshold was not exceeded, but compared to last week there were 13% more patients. In total, there are 6,944 people who complained of symptoms characteristic of a viral infection.

In almost all municipalities, the incidence rate is normal; only the Plavsky district distinguished itself, where 8% more adults are sick than expected. Previously, local authorities closed 2 schools for quarantine (in the Efremovsky and Volovsky districts).

Moscow and Moscow region

Moscow was distinguished by its stability regarding the incidence of influenza and ARVI in the period from March 12 to 19. Doctors talk about the correspondence of the real picture with the expected level for a given period of the year.

However, it is still noted that specified time The number of people with symptoms of a viral infection has increased – by almost 39%. Children get sick more often than adults. The proportion of children and schoolchildren with ARVI and influenza is about 68%. This was stated by representatives of Rospotrebnadzor in Moscow and the Moscow region.

Let us recall that previously the main sanitary doctor countries Anna Popova predicted a change in the strain of the active virus. Seasonal H3N2 has changed to group B influenza. It differs in that it does not spread so quickly, since it has a low ability to be transmitted from person to person, but at the same time it can cause unpleasant and very serious consequences. In the absence of appropriate treatment, complications of influenza B can include lower respiratory tract diseases, pneumonia, and bronchitis. That is why Popova focused on the fact that one should not forget about prevention, and if symptoms appear, do not search for folk recipes, and go to the hospital.

Acute respiratory diseases (ARIs) in their prevalence have left all known infectious diseases far behind. They are caused by a wide variety of viruses and bacteria that infect the upper respiratory tract. The vast majority of diseases are of a viral nature, which include respiratory viruses of influenza type A and B, parainfluenza, adeno-, rhino- and coronaviruses, respiratory syncytial viruses, etc. They cause a number of acute respiratory viral infections (ARVI), including influenza even during epidemics it is no more than 20 - 30%.

Of all the above infections, only the influenza virus causes devastating pandemics with high morbidity and mortality.

In 2014, about 30 million cases of acute respiratory infections were registered in our country, of which influenza accounted for 12,836 cases. Outside of epidemic periods, influenza has mild course, as it is caused by weakly virulent strains. During epidemics and pandemics, the disease becomes severe and even fatal. Pneumonia, myocarditis, sinusitis, meningitis and activation hidden infections- main complications of influenza. Children, the elderly and patients with chronic diseases are at risk this disease. Vaccination of children suffering from bronchial asthma and other chronic diseases is a necessary measure.

Rice. 1. The photo shows the influenza virus.

Types of influenza viruses

Influenza viruses are divided into three types - A, B and C.

• Type A is divided into subtypes. This division is based on various types combinations of viral surface proteins. The influenza virus subtypes A(H1N1) and A(H3N2) are currently circulating among humans. Influenza A viruses are also dangerous for animals. Each animal species has its own virus. However, due to constant mutations, viruses inherent in animals (birds, pigs) become dangerous to humans. Type A viruses cause severe epidemics.
• Type B influenza viruses circulate only among humans, are less dangerous and do not cause epidemics, but are also capable of mutating.
• Type C influenza viruses are the most harmless. They only infect people. The resulting disease occurs easily, without complications. They don't cause epidemics.

Rice. 2. Antiviral drugs inhibit the viral enzyme neuraminidase, which promotes the separation of new viral particles from the host cell.

Flu and ARVI: differences

Respiratory tract damage

• Rhinovirus infection affects the epithelial cells of the nasal passages.
• With adenoviral infection, conjunctivitis develops in combination with tonsillitis and pharyngitis, occurring with a pronounced exudative component.
• With parainfluenza infection, laryngitis develops.
• With respiratory syncytial infection, inflammation develops in the bronchi and bronchioles.
• With influenza, viruses infect the upper and middle respiratory tract. In the clinical picture of the disease, the phenomena of tracheitis prevail.

Rice. 3. The photo shows two types of ARVI virus.

Intoxication syndrome

• Adenoviral infection is characterized by an acute onset, an increase in body temperature up to 38 o C. The state of malaise lasts up to 10 days. The symptoms of intoxication are weaker than with the flu. With elevated body temperature, the patient's general condition often remains satisfactory.
• With an uncomplicated respiratory syncytial infection, the body temperature rises slightly, and the symptoms of intoxication are mild.
• With mycoplasma infection, the disease develops gradually, but its duration is longer.
• With parainfluenza, the symptoms of intoxication are mild. The disease develops gradually. By the 3rd day of the disease, a maximum increase in symptoms is observed.
• Only with influenza is there a pronounced intoxication syndrome, which begins to develop from the first hours of the disease. Weakness increases rapidly, severe muscle and joint pain appears. The headache is localized in the frontal region and in the eyeballs. Movement of the eyeballs and pressure on them causes increased pain. Body temperature in short terms rises to high performance and lasts for a short time (up to 3 - 5 days for influenza A and up to 7 days for influenza B). A different temperature pattern indicates bacterial complication. Fever is accompanied by chills. The disease is dangerous due to the development of complications in weakened people, children and the elderly.

There are mild and erased forms of influenza. It is this category of patients that spreads the infection during epidemics and pandemics.

Today there are several methods laboratory diagnostics influenza, including rapid tests, however, in the practice of a polyclinic doctor they are rarely used, since making a diagnosis during epidemics does not cause any particular difficulties.

During the non-epidemic period specific gravity diseases in the structure of ARVI does not reach 10%.

Rice. 4. Fever and severe headache are the main symptoms of the flu.

Disease prognosis

In September 2015, the World Health Organization published a forecast of the influenza epidemic situation.

• It is expected that in the 2016-2017 epidemic season, the rise in the incidence of acute respiratory viral infections, including influenza, will be of high intensity.
• The pandemic influenza A (H1N1)09 virus, which was previously called “swine”, will dominate.
• Seasonal influenza A (H3N2) and B viruses will circulate simultaneously.

Russian experts suggest an increase in incidence in the 2nd decade of 2016, with a peak in mid-January 2017. The incidence of influenza is expected to be moderate. Types A (H1N1), A (H3N2) and B will predominate.

The high mutation ability of influenza viruses leads to the emergence of new antigenic subtypes and new viruses. Thus, in recent years, new highly pathogenic influenza A viruses (H5N1, H7N9, etc.), coronaviruses and other pathogens of acute respiratory viral infections have appeared.

Rice. 5. In the photo there are influenza viruses.

Antiviral drugs

Several groups of antiviral drugs are used to treat influenza:

• 2nd generation antiviral drugs (neuraminidase inhibitors),
• other antiviral drugs,
• interferon preparations,
• interferon inducers.

First generation antiviral drugs

First generation antiviral drugs (M2 channel blockers) were synthesized in 1961. Their representatives are Rimantadine And Algirem, which were used for A. The effectiveness of Rimantadine in the past reached 70 - 90%. Currently, the use of these drugs is not recommended due to the development of resistance in most strains of influenza viruses. The drug has no effect at all on other pathogens of ARVI.

Second generation antiviral drugs

Second generation antiviral drugs (neuraminidase inhibitors) have been developed relatively recently. They prevent the process of reproduction and spread of influenza viruses in the patient’s body. Antiviral drugs inhibit the viral enzyme neuraminidase, which promotes the separation of new viral particles from the host cell. Drugs in this group include Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) And Zanamivir (Relenza).

• Second-generation antiviral drugs are active only against influenza viruses type A and B, including pandemic ones. They are used only for and are not used to treat other acute respiratory viral infections.
• The drugs have a powerful therapeutic effect when administered no later than 24-48 days from the onset of the first signs of the disease.
• Enhances the effect and prevents the development of drug resistance simultaneous administration drugs of this group with other antiviral drugs and interferon inducers.

WHO recommends the drug for use against influenza in 2017 Oseltamivir (Tamiflu). The drug is effective against influenza caused by strains of viruses A and B. K Oseltamivir resistance develops much less frequently than to other antiviral drugs.

Zanamivir not widely used in clinical practice because of inhalation method its application and development of a number adverse reactions.

Unjustified use of antiviral drugs leads to the development of drug resistance.

Rice. 6. The antiviral drug Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) is active only against influenza viruses type A and B, including pandemic ones. Recommended for the treatment of the disease in 2017.

Other antiviral drugs

Ingavirin has a triple effect - antiviral, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory. The drug suppresses the reproduction of influenza viruses type A and B and is active against swine flu viruses. Under influence Ingaverina in the patient’s blood, the production of interferons and NK-T cells that destroy viruses increases, and the production of anti-inflammatory cytokines is suppressed.

Arbidol developed by domestic scientists. Today the drug is one of the most studied antiviral drugs. Arbidol has a depressing effect not only on influenza viruses type A and B, but also on other viruses. There is practically no resistance to the drug. Arbidol is used for therapeutic and prophylactic purposes. Taking the drug shortens the treatment time and reduces the number of post-influenza complications.

Anaferon- a complex drug that has antiviral, immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects. Used for the treatment and prevention of acute respiratory viral infections, including influenza.

Drugs Ingavirin And Arbidol recommended for the treatment of influenza in adults in the Russian Federation.

Interferon preparations

Interferons are the first line of defense against many types of viruses, including influenza viruses. Interferon drugs are intended for the treatment and prevention of a number of acute respiratory viral infections. In the human body, interferons are produced by blood cells in response to invading viruses and inhibit the replication of viruses in infected cells. Drugs in this group are obtained from donated blood, and are also created by genetic engineering.

Drugs are widely used in our country Grippferon, Alfaron and Ingaron in the form of nasal drops and Viferon in the form of ointments, gels and suppositories.

— genetically engineered recombinant drug interferon α-2b. The drug is active against a number of viruses that cause ARVI. Taking it shortens the treatment period for influenza and reduces the number of its complications.

Rice. 8. The photo shows the genetically engineered recombinant drug interferon α-2b Grippferon.

Interferon inducers

Interferon inducer drugs have antiviral effect, adjusting immune status body. They cause in macrophages, leukocytes, epithelial cells, cells of the liver, spleen, brain and lungs synthesize their own α- and β-interferons. Interferon inducers include synthetic and natural compounds: Amiksin, Cycloferon, Ridostin, Dibazol, Tiloron, Cycloferon, Kagocel, Neovir and Ergoferon.

Interferon inducers are slightly allergenic, when taken for a long time they stimulate the body's production of its own interferons, and combine well with antibiotics, antiviral drugs, immunomodulators and other drugs. Viral resistance does not develop to interferon inducer drugs. Drugs such as Cycloferon, Neovir, Tiloron and Kagocel developed by domestic scientists.

Kagocel in the Russian Federation is included in the treatment standards for moderate and severe forms influenza in adults. The drug is included in the list of vital important medicines and is included in the federal reserve stock medicines. The drug also has a positive effect in the treatment of other viral diseases. The drug has the maximum therapeutic effect when taken for up to 4 days. Indicated for use in children from 3 years of age.

Ergoferon has antiviral and anti-inflammatory effects, has an antihistamine effect. The drug is recommended for the treatment of acute respiratory viral infections, including influenza in patients of different ages, including those suffering from chronic diseases with a burdened history of allergies.

Rice. 9. Interferon inducers Kagocel and Amiksin for the prevention and treatment of influenza in children and adults.

Prevention of influenza in children and adults

The flu shot prevents thousands of cases of influenza each year and reduces the incidence of deaths diseases. Even if the composition of the vaccine does not match the types and subtypes of viruses that cause epidemics, the flu shot will still have a positive effect due to the antigens common to different strains of influenza viruses.

The flu shot reduces:

• morbidity and mortality from influenza;
• morbidity of the bronchi and lungs during influenza epidemics;
• incidence of other acute respiratory viral infections during epidemics.

Vaccine prophylaxis carried out for 2 years has a more powerful protective effect than a single prophylaxis. The more members of a family or team are vaccinated, the higher the collective immunity.

Rice. 10. The flu vaccine will protect adults and children from the disease.

Composition of vaccines

3.9 million deaths in the world are associated with acute respiratory infections. From 30 to 50% of all cases of pneumonia are pneumonia caused by ARVI. Pneumonia, myocarditis, sinusitis, meningitis and the activation of latent infections are the main complications of influenza. Influenza viruses can be fatal. This situation dictates the need to prevent and treat not only influenza, but also other acute respiratory viral infections.

According to WHO and Russian experts, vaccination against influenza is the most effective means disease prevention.

The flu vaccine contains 2 types of viruses: A (H3N2), A (H1N1) and type B. Based on constant monitoring by scientists of the circulation different types viruses, the composition of the flu vaccine is constantly changing. Annual vaccination creates immunity in the human body to new strains of viruses. In 2016, updated anti-influenza domestic and foreign vaccines will be used. The vaccines have replaced 2 strains.

• A/California/7/2009 (H1N1)pdm09;
• A/Switzerland/9715293/2013(H3N2)-like virus;
• B/Phuket/3073/2013-like virus.

New vaccines protect simultaneously against 3 types of the most common viruses. Even if the WHO forecast regarding the composition of influenza viruses does not come true, vaccination still remains effective due to antigens common to different strains of influenza viruses.

The effectiveness of vaccination does not exceed 80%, so WHO urgently, in addition to preventive vaccination recommends the use of antiviral drugs.

Types of vaccines

For the prevention of influenza, inactivated and live vaccines are used, which include type A viruses, subtypes A/H1N1/, A/H3N2/ and type B.

Inactivated vaccines are represented by whole-virion, split (split) and subunit vaccines. Split and subunit vaccines are highly purified. The composition of the Russian vaccine Grippol ( subunit vaccine) includes the immunostimulant polyoxidonium.

When administering flu vaccinations to children, highly purified inactivated vaccines new generation, with reduced reactogenicity:

• Subunit vaccines: Influvac, Grippol, Agrippal.
• Split vaccines: Fluarix, Vaxigrip, Begrivak.

Russian inactivated whole virion vaccines are more reactogenic. They are intended for vaccination of adults, adolescents and children 7 years of age and older. These vaccines are administered intranasally only.

Rice. 11. The photo shows a flu vaccine.

Flu vaccination technology

Immunity after a flu vaccination should be developed by the beginning of the epidemic period (December - February), for which immunization is carried out in September - October.

Adults should receive one dose of the vaccine. Due to the presence of immunological memory, antibodies appear in the body of an adult within a week.

Previously unvaccinated children do not have immunological memory, so they are initially given two childhood vaccines at an interval of 4 weeks. Subsequently, only one childhood dose of the vaccine is administered during vaccination.

The influenza vaccine is given by injection. Some vaccines are given intranasally. With this method of vaccine administration, the risk of adverse reactions is sharply reduced and local immunity is created.

Rice. 12. Flu vaccines are administered subcutaneously in the upper third of the upper arm and intranasally.

Contraindications

• An absolute contraindication to vaccination is a strong reaction to a previous vaccine administration.
• It is not recommended to vaccinate persons with severe allergies, as well as persons allergic to chicken and quail eggs, aminoglycosides and other products used in the production of vaccines.
• Vaccination cannot be carried out during periods of acute disease or exacerbation of chronic disease.
• Contraindications to vaccination are progressive diseases of the nervous system.

Persons with immunodeficiencies, breastfeeding and pregnant women can be vaccinated against influenza, but subunit and split vaccines must be used.

Every year during the winter season, up to 5 million adults and children fall ill with the flu around the world, and about 250 thousand people die from it. Part of the danger of the virus is that it mutates very quickly - having been infected with a strain of one season, human body, as a rule, turns out to be unprepared for the strain next year. This turned out to be the case this year as well. If in 2016 we passed, then in 2017 a new one came - the Hong Kong flu, due to which quarantine was already declared in 55 Kyiv schools. Let's figure out what it is and whether we should be afraid of the new strain of influenza.

Hong Kong flu 2017 is a strain of the virus type A, which occurs in the middle or complex degree severity (symptoms of the flu include a temperature of 39 °C, sore throat, body aches, lacrimation, photophobia, nosebleeds). A feature of influenza 2017 is the risk of rapid development of severe organ complications respiratory system, in particular, bronchitis and pneumonia.

Flu, cold or acute respiratory viral infection: how to understand what you have by symptoms

For clarity, we decided to show you an infographic that compares. It will help you understand the signs of what disease you are experiencing based on your symptoms, and subsequently determine the correct treatment. But do not forget that self-medication can be dangerous, and, be that as it may, you should seek professional help from a doctor at the first symptoms of the disease.

1. Get a flu shot. If you have a 2017 flu vaccine in your area, get vaccinated! Vaccination is the most effective method prevention of influenza 2017 - will reduce the chances of getting sick, and if something happens, the disease will pass V mild form without complications. For vaccination, be sure to choose the current year's vaccine. Be sure to get your children vaccinated against flu (especially for ages 0.6 - 2 years). Pregnant women should also get a flu vaccine. Read also our separate material about.
2. Avoid crowded places. Humans are the main source of the virus. How more people, those more likely that you will catch the flu virus along with the air. Try to take the subway outside of rush hour, go to the store less often, and take an extra walk rather than take one stop on public transport.
3. A mask is not a panacea. It will not protect a healthy adult from the virus, so it should not be used as a flu prevention. The only person who needs it is a patient who is in contact with healthy people.
4. Watch the air. In a warm room with dry air, the virus spreads instantly and remains active for a long time. In cool, humid air it is instantly destroyed. Therefore, it is almost impossible for an adult to catch the virus while walking on the street. Stick to optimal indoor air parameters - temperature about 20 ° C and humidity 50-70%. Be sure to frequently ventilate the room, wash the floor and turn on humidifiers to prevent the 2017 flu.
5. Moisturize mucous membranes. The mucus that forms in the upper respiratory tract ensures the preventive functioning of “local” immunity - the protection of the mucous membranes. If the mucus and mucous membranes dry out, the work of local immunity is disrupted, the virus easily overcomes the protective barrier of weakened local immunity and the person gets the flu. The two main causes of dry mucous membranes are dry air and medications that can dry out the mucous membranes (often these are most nasal drops).
6. Don't forget to disinfect your hands. Wash your hands as often and as much as possible, and carry wet disinfectant wipes and hand sanitizer with you at all times. If you cough or sneeze, do it into your elbow rather than your palm. And after every contact with money, disinfect your hands, because paper money is another source of the spread of viruses.
7. Be careful with your pets. As we have already said, animals are one of the main spreaders of the 2017 influenza virus. If you have an animal at home that you often walk, wash its paws and face thoroughly after each return home and if your pet sleeps with you in the bedroom, do not allow it lie on the bed and, even more so, lick your face and hands.
8. Do not take immunostimulants or antivirals. No pills can protect either an adult or a child from any respiratory virus in general, much less from the flu. All the immune stimulants and vitamins that are so advertised in this moment are drugs with unproven effectiveness that are comparable to the placebo effect.

For preparations saline solution to prevent influenza 2017, mix 1 tsp. table salt with 1 liter boiled water, pour it into any spray bottle and regularly spray it into the nose (the drier than more people around - the more often, at least every 10 minutes). You can buy it at the pharmacy for the same purpose. saline or ready-made saline solutions for introduction into the nasal passages: “Salin”, “Aqua Maris”, “Humer”, “Physiomer”, “Aqualor”, “Dolphin”, “Morenazal”, “Marimer”, “Nosol”, etc. Drip, spray, especially when you go from home (from a dry room) to where there are a lot of people, especially if you are sitting in the corridor of the clinic.

Treatment for the 2017 influenza virus

In the 2016-2017 season, only 2 drugs were approved for the treatment of influenza in children and adults - Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) and Zanamivir (Relenza). Another drug is recommended only for adults - Peramivir ("Rapivab"). All other flu drugs and medications are ineffective and will not help you overcome the virus. “Killing the virus” with any drugs as self-medication is a pointless waste of time, effort and money.

Oseltamivir is used when the disease is severe (doctors know the signs of severe ARVI) or when a person at risk even gets sick mildly - elderly people, asthmatics, diabetics and others who belong to risk groups. Important: if oseltamivir is indicated for you, then at least medical supervision and, as a rule, hospitalization are indicated.

That's it for Flu Medicines 2017. Now let's move on to other "medicines" that will help you fight the flu virus effectively.

1. Stay warm. Warm clothing and cool, moist indoor air at a temperature of 18-20 ° C (better 16 than 22) and humidity 50-70% (better 80 than 30) is one of the main “cures” for the flu. Wash floors and turn on humidifiers.
2. Don't try to eat as much nutritious food as possible. If you don't feel like it, eat something light or liquid.
3. Drink water and fluids. Compotes, fruit drinks, (add finely chopped apple), raisin and dried apricot decoctions. Drink anything, as long as you drink. We previously did a review. Also ideal for drinking - ready-made solutions for oral rehydration, which are sold in pharmacies: “Regidron”, “Re-sol”, “Humana electrolyte”, “Gastrolit”, “Normogidron”, etc. Buy, dilute according to instructions and drink. IMPORTANT: If you urinate once every three hours, you drink enough water; if you don’t urinate for more than 6 hours, it means there is a critical fluid deficiency in your body. If you can’t drink, see a doctor immediately.
4. Drip/sprinkle saline solutions into your nose as often as possible. How often to spray in the nose, as well as the solution recipe, see the “flu prevention” section.
5. Shoot down high temperature Paracetamol or ibuprofen will help. Children should absolutely not take aspirin (child + virus + aspirin = risk of deadly liver complications).
6. If the upper respiratory tract is affected (nose, throat, larynx), no expectorants are needed- they will only make the cough worse. Damage to the lower respiratory tract (bronchitis, pneumonia) has nothing to do with self-medication at all. Medicines that suppress cough (if the instructions say “antitussive action”) are strictly prohibited! IMPORTANT: all cough syrups are contraindicated for children under 2 years of age, not recommended for children under 6 years of age, and not needed after 6 years of age, since their effectiveness is compared to drinking plenty of fluids not proven.
7. Folk remedies don't work. All procedures are a la jars, mustard plasters, steam inhalations over a kettle or saucepan, rubbing with alcohol-containing liquids does not work.
8. Viral infections NOT treated with antibiotics. Antibiotics do not reduce, but increase the risk of complications. , we wrote earlier.
9. Powders for comprehensive symptom relief will NOT cope with the influenza virus. Their very name indicates that they will only mask the course of the disease, therefore.
10. Homeopathy is not a herbal treatment, but a treatment with charged water. Safe, but does not cure the flu.
11. The last point that applies to all adults: Don't try to carry the flu on your feet. To make the consequences as minimal as possible, stay home and get treatment. This way, the body will spend less energy on maintaining vital functions and will direct all its energy to fight the virus.

WHEN IS A DOCTOR NEEDED? ALWAYS!

But we understand that most people refuse to go to the doctor due to busyness and a lot of hassle. Therefore, we list the situations WHEN A DOCTOR IS NECESSARY:

No improvement on the fourth day of illness;
- elevated temperature bodies on the seventh day of illness;
- deterioration after improvement;
- pronounced severity of the condition with moderate symptoms of ARVI;
- appearance alone or in combination: pale skin; thirst, shortness of breath, intense pain, purulent discharge;
- increased cough, decreased productivity; deep breath leads to a coughing attack;
- when body temperature rises, paracetamol and ibuprofen do not help, practically do not help, or help very briefly.

A DOCTOR IS NEEDED MANDATORY AND URGENTLY, if observed:

Loss of consciousness;
- convulsions;
- signs respiratory failure(difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, feeling of lack of air);
- intense pain anywhere;
- even a moderate sore throat in the absence of a runny nose (a sore throat + a dry nose is often a symptom of a sore throat, which requires a doctor and an antibiotic);
- even moderate headache combined with vomiting;
swelling of the neck;
- a rash that does not disappear when you press on it;
- body temperature above 39 °C, which does not begin to decrease 30 minutes after the use of antipyretics;
- any increase in body temperature combined with chills and pale skin.

We told you everything about the 2017 flu, namely, how it progresses, its prevention, main symptoms and treatment. Take care of yourself and be healthy!