Influenza is an acute viral disease that causes worldwide epidemics every 2 to 3 years with a highly variable degree of severity. The virus is easily spread from host to host through droplet exposure. Previous infection with influenza does not guarantee protection from future exposure. Mortality is probably attributable to influenza and its accompanying pneumonia (viral or superimposed bacterial pneumonia) and other chronic cardiopulmonary sequelae. Transmission is most likely to occur in the first 3 days of illness.
MANAGEMENT
Goals of medical and nursing management include reliving symptoms, treating complications and preventing transmission.
PREVENTION
Annual influenza vaccination are recommended for those at high risk for complications of influenza. These include people over age 50; residents of extended care facilities; people with chronic pulmonary or cardiovascular disease, diabetes, immunosuppression, or renal dysfunction; children who require long-term aspirin therapy, which puts them at incrased risk of developing Reye’s syndrome; and health care personnel.
