Two types of viruses in the viral family Orthomyxoviridae cause seasonal flu: influenza A and influenza B. Although both virus types cause the same constellation of symptoms including fever, headache, dry cough, fatigue, muscle aches, sore throat and a runny or stuffy nose, the illness caused by influenza B is typically milder than that caused by influenza A. There is no cure for the flu, and treatment is usually geared toward symptom relief. In cases of severe illness or flu-related complications, antiviral medication may be used in an attempt to shorten the duration of the illness and mitigate symptoms.
Support Hydration
Flu typically causes fever, which may lead to dehydration. Maintaining good fluid intake avoids this potential problem. Water, herbal teas, broth, clear fruit juices, frozen ice pops and gelatins are some options to help maintain hydration. Infants should continue their normal feeding schedule. Alcohol and caffeine should be avoided because they increase urine production and fluid loss through the kidneys. Although uncommon, inability to maintain adequate hydration may require emergency treatment or hospitalization to provide fluids intravenously.
Reduce Fever
Fever reduction can help alleviate the general feeling of being unwell that accompanies the flu. Bathing in lukewarm (not hot) water or wiping the body down with a cool washcloth may help reduce fever. Maintaining good hydration also tends to keep fever down. Over-the-counter fever-reducing medicines such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen are an option. These medicines often help alleviate not only fever but also the muscle aches that often accompany the flu. Aspirin should not be used because of the risk of Reye's syndrome. High fever can lead to seizures, especially in infants and young children. Seizure activity requires emergency medical treatment.
Ease Dry Cough
A humidifier or vaporizer can help reduce coughing. Throat lozenges or sucking on hard candies may also be helpful in older children (for whom there is no risk of choking) and adults. Consult with your doctor about whether an over-the-counter cough medicine may be helpful. Maintaining good hydration keeps the throat moist and may reduce the frequency of dry coughing. A dry cough that becomes wet with phlegm production or the development of breathing difficulties such as shortness of breath may indicate pneumonia, a possible complication of the flu. Immediate medical care is necessary for any breathing difficulties.
Relieve Sore Throat
Saltwater gargles may help ease the pain of a flu-related sore throat. Frozen ice pops, ice chips, gelatins, cool liquids and throat lozenges or hard candies may also be soothing.
Rest
Flu causes extreme tiredness, which is best alleviated by resting and sleeping. As you sleep, your body is working to heal and recover without having to expend energy on the tasks of daily living.
Antiviral Medications
Two antiviral medications are active against influenza B: zanamivir and oseltamivir. Use of these medicines is generally limited to people at high risk for complications of the flu, or those who have already developed complications. People at increased risk for influenza B complications includes those with asthma or another chronic lung disease, people living with HIV/AIDS or another condition that suppresses the immune system, adults 65 and older and persons of any age with a chronic medical condition. The decision whether to use antiviral medication will be made by your doctor, taking into consideration your unique medical history, current health and the severity of the illness.
References
- Microbiology and Immunology Online: Chapter 13, Influenza Virus (Orthomyxovirus)
- World Health Organization: Influenza (seasonal)
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Flu Symptoms and Severity
- Microbiology Bytes: Orthomyxoviruses
- "Principles and Practice of Infectious Diseases, Sixth Edition"; Gerald L. Mandell, M.D., John E. Bennett, M.D., Raphael Dolin, M.D., Editors; 2004
