Can influenza-specific drugs prevent influenza?

Written by Wang Chun Mei
Pulmonology
Updated on October 22, 2024
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Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory disease caused by the invasion of the respiratory tract by influenza virus. Clinically, it can be divided into type A influenza and type B influenza based on the specific type of virus infection. Clinically, there are actually no specific drugs for influenza. The key is to provide appropriate antiviral medications for symptomatic treatment. For example, if a patient is infected with the influenza virus, commonly used treatments include traditional Chinese medicines or antiviral drugs, which can effectively alleviate the uncomfortable symptoms caused by the influenza virus. Regardless of which type of influenza virus the patient has, the medications used in clinical treatment cannot prevent influenza. Therefore, we recommend avoiding going out as much as possible during the peak season of influenza. If going out is necessary, it is important to take precautions, as influenza is transmitted through respiratory droplets. Wearing a mask when going outside can reduce the chances of getting infected with influenza.

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Written by Li Jian Wu
Pulmonology
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Does the flu require infusion?

Whether to administer intravenous fluids for influenza should be decided based on the severity of the illness, individual constitution, and the duration of the disease. It cannot be determined by the simplicity of the condition alone. Influenza is a contagious respiratory disease caused by infection with influenza or parainfluenza virus. If the immune function is normal and there are no complications, generally one can recover on their own in five to ten days without the need for intravenous fluids. However, if influenza infects a person with a weak constitution and causes complications leading to bacterial infection, resulting in symptoms like breathing difficulties and coughing, intravenous fluid therapy is required.

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Written by Yuan Qing
Pulmonology
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Routes of influenza transmission

Influenza, also known as the flu, is a disease caused by infection of the upper respiratory tract with the influenza virus. It is characterized mainly by sore throat, cough, and fever, and some patients may also experience nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. The primary mode of transmission of influenza is through droplets, which occur when an infected person sneezes or coughs, and their secretions, such as nasal discharge, are inhaled by others. Additionally, the virus can be transmitted through the digestive tract and mucous membranes of the skin. If a healthy person comes into contact with the secretions of an infected person, such as through skin contact or orally, they may also be infected. Therefore, it is crucial to isolate from those infected with the flu.

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Written by Yuan Qing
Pulmonology
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Can rhinitis be treated with antibiotics?

Influenza can be treated with antibiotics, but there must be appropriate indications and signs for their use. After influenza infection, the human body may experience a decline in immunity due to the virus, especially a decrease in lymphocytes, which makes it particularly susceptible to bacterial infections. These bacteria are likely to cause bacterial inflammation, with the main symptoms being cough, coughing up yellow phlegm, or having a runny nose with yellow nasal discharge. If such yellow or purulent secretions are observed, they generally indicate a bacterial infection, and it is advisable to boldly use some antibiotics for treatment. Antibiotics that are less toxic, have fewer side effects, and have strong antimicrobial activity should be chosen; such antibiotics often yield very satisfactory results.

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Written by Li Fang Xiao
Internal Medicine
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Influenza vaccination time

Influenza vaccines are primarily used to prevent epidemic influenza. Currently, there are three types of influenza vaccines in our country: Type A, Type B, and Type C. The best time to vaccinate for influenza is in September and October, because epidemic influenza often outbreaks in winter and spring. Therefore, getting vaccinated during these months can greatly prevent the transmission of epidemic influenza. The main groups recommended for influenza vaccination include preschool children and the elderly or frail, such as those with chronic diseases. Those with chronic conditions are at high risk of exacerbating their diseases after contracting epidemic influenza. These groups are particularly suitable for influenza vaccination. During the influenza vaccination period and before getting vaccinated, it is important to ensure that one is not having a cold, including symptoms like fever, to proceed with the vaccination.

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Written by Yuan Qing
Pulmonology
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How to prevent the flu

Influenza, also called flu, is caused by influenza viruses, which are categorized into three types: A, B, and C. After infecting a human, symptoms exhibited by a patient include fever, sore throat, cough, and phlegm, which characterizes the disease called influenza. This disease is classified as a Class B infectious disease in China and has a certain level of contagiousness among populations. It can also be transmitted to humans from certain animals, such as birds and pigs. In the prevention of influenza, the first step is to isolate the patient and the source of infection. The patient must not be contacted. Second, it is necessary to cut off the transmission routes, for example, industries related to the slaughter of poultry and pork should be avoided. Third, it is important to boost resistance and nutrition. Fourth, opening windows to ventilate and avoid overly polluted air can also help in preventing influenza.