Antiviral drugs against influenza are predominantly used for the treatment of influenza. Treatment with influenza antiviral drugs should be started as soon as possible when the first symptoms of the disease are recognized and definitely within 48 hours. It has been shown that the sooner the drugs are used, the more effective they are. When […]
With the current knowledge about influenza viruses in humans and animals, as well as the mechanisms that underlie the emergence of new pandemic viruses, it is reasonable to expect that also in the future influenza pandemics will emerge. However the unprecedented increase of our understanding of processes that determine the emergence of influenza viruses with […]
The influenza vaccine does not contain any live viruses and therefore cannot cause the illness. Flu vaccine manufacturers inactivate the viruses used in the vaccine during the production process, and batches of flu vaccine are tested to make sure they are safe.
Serious adverse reactions to the influenza vaccine are rare, with most common reactions being local redness and swelling at the injection site. Other mild symptoms including headache, mild fever and sore muscles may occur in a very small percentage of people vaccinated, but are limited to 24-48 hours duration. Allergic reactions may occur in people […]
Influenza viruses have a great capacity to mutate and change. In light of this, a new vaccine is made every year to protect against the current strains. In addition, immunity provided by an influenza vaccine begins to fade after a year.
Anyone can contract influenza and being healthy does not protect against infection. For those at high risk of developing complications from influenza, infection can result in a deterioration of the chronic condition, hospitalisation or even death. Risk groups commonly include elderly persons (age 65 and above), persons with long-term medical conditions (asthma, diabetes, or heart […]
Influenza (the flu) is a highly contagious and potentially life-threatening disease. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. The flu vaccine is the single best way to prevent the flu, and vaccination is the main tool used to protect people from influenza. The flu vaccine is easily administered […]
Health care workers infected with influenza can transmit the highly contagious virus to patients in their care. This is particularly troubling for the many patients at high risk for influenza-related complications. In addition, infected healthcare workers have high risks of not being able to continue to care for their patients. Healthcare workers are therefore strongly […]
Influenza and the common cold are both respiratory illnesses but they are caused by different viruses. These two types of illnesses have similar flu-like symptoms, yet there are differences: Symptoms Cold Flu Fever Rare Usual; high (37.8°C to 38.9°C occasionally higher, especially in young children); lasts 3 to 4 days Headache Rare Common General Aches, […]