Influenza 2017: symptoms and treatment

The autumn-winter period is the time of seasonal diseases, the most common of which is flu. What awaits us this year, how to prevent an epidemic and cure it?

Flu is a type of acute respiratory viral infection, but it is characterized by serious complications that can cause death. According to the World Health Organization, 3-5 million people suffer from seasonal flu every year, and 250-500 thousand cases end in death.

The disease is transmitted by airborne droplets at a distance of no more than 3 meters between a healthy person and a donor. You can also become infected through objects that contain aerosol particles of the patient's cough. When the virus enters a healthy body, it weakens the immune system's defenses, opening the way for other diseases.

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World Flu 2017 is already on the doorstep

The onset of the epidemic is predicted for the last months of autumn and the beginning of winter, that is, for the first cold weather.

The 2017 global flu, according to many experts, will start in China. This is due to the increased population density, large population of pigs and birds. Based on this, we can conclude that we will again have to face H2N2, which, unlike 1957, will be heavily mutated and modified.

Infection with the following strains is also possible:

• Californian - affects both humans and animals, is transmitted from species to species. This virus made itself known in 2009, causing outbreaks of swine flu around the world. It is characterized by constant mutations. Its symptoms are similar to a cold, but it progresses quickly, taking a pathological form.
• Brisbane is an Australian virus that is spreading rapidly. Its peculiarity is that in 25% of cases it causes serious complications.
• Switzerland is a mutated form of the California virus H1N1 type A, which has evolved into the H3N2 form. In its symptoms, it is identical to the California variety, to which respiratory symptoms are gradually added. With timely and proper treatment, it does not cause complications.
• Yamagata is a relatively safe strain when compared to swine or bird flu. It spreads quickly and requires urgent treatment. If the patient suffers the disease on his feet, it can lead to serious complications, the most common of which are cardiac and pulmonary pathologies.
• Phuket is an unstable virus that is constantly evolving. Frequent mutations lead to changes in the usual symptoms of the disease. It is difficult to diagnose.

Scientists do not rule out the emergence of new types of deadly viruses. To prevent the 2017 flu, vaccinations are being carried out against previously known strains.

Flu epidemic 2017

Every year we anxiously await the flu season. And this is not surprising, since viruses are constantly mutating, complicating the process of diagnosis and treatment. According to scientists, this year the seasonal disease may turn into a real flu epidemic 2017, which is associated with the exacerbation of pneumococcal infections and changes in many strains.

The human body cannot develop permanent immunity to influenza, as the virus is extremely changeable. Today, there are three serotypes of the disease: A, B and C, which differ in their antigen spectrum and the location of ribonucleic acid fragments. Each serotype contains a specific subtype - a strain that can change its genetic data under the influence of external factors, i.e. mutate.

• A - these are the most severe forms of influenza. This type is divided into several subtypes by the combination of proteins and the characteristics of hemagglutinin. It causes disease in humans, animals and birds, and the virus can be transmitted between all species. It causes epidemics 2-3 times a year, an active and antigenically unstable serotype.
• B – causes local epidemics affecting several neighboring countries. May precede an outbreak of serotype A. Most often affects children, has moderate symptoms.
• C – occurs in a mild form and causes isolated cases of the disease. Mainly affects children and people with a weakened immune system. Circulates only in the human population, is antigenically stable.

Having recovered from one flu serotype, you can immediately become ill with another. This is due to the fact that cross-immunity between different strains is very weak.

Flu 2017 in Russia

The Russian Ministry of Health has begun preparations for the 2017 flu. In Russia, it is expected at the beginning of winter – November-January. But work is already underway to create a three-component seasonal vaccine, which will include the B, H1N1 and H3N2 strains of the virus. Vaccines are being developed for adults and children, which will allow for full prevention. Immunization of the population will begin with megacities, as they are home to major transport hubs and a large flow of people.

According to doctors, the epidemic will not cover the entire country at once, that is, the flu will gradually move across Russia. The virus can come from China or from its southern neighbors, that is, from European countries. If we consider the strain structure, the dominant one will be H3N2 (subtype of the influenza A virus). The main symptoms of the disease are: a sharp increase in temperature, headaches and joint pain, weakness, runny nose. The treatment will not differ from the therapy for last year's strains. As for complications, they are possible with the progression of the pathological condition due to late diagnosis or improper treatment. In especially severe cases, a fatal outcome is possible.

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Flu 2017 in Ukraine

According to medical statistics, every 35-40 years the epidemiological situation with seasonal diseases significantly worsens. Flu 2017 in Ukraine is expected at the beginning of winter, that is, January-February, outbreaks are also possible in February. This is explained by the circulation of air currents that carry diseases from one territory to another. According to experts, the virus will come to us from Russia, and to them from neighboring China.

Scientists are preparing to meet the mutated H3N2, which can lead to serious complications and death. But do not panic and trust the forecasts, just listen to them.

In order to protect yourself from seasonal illness, it is recommended to get vaccinated. Also, do not forget about preventive measures aimed at strengthening the immune system. At the first symptoms of the disease (weakness, fever, runny nose, headaches and muscle pain), you should seek medical help. Timely and correct treatment will help avoid flu complications.

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Flu 2016-2017: High-Risk Groups

Like any disease, influenza 2017 has high-risk groups, which are divided according to medical and epidemiological factors.

Medical:

• Patients over 65 years of age and newborns.
• People with chronic diseases: bronchopulmonary and cardiovascular systems, kidney damage, endocrine pathologies, kidney, liver and blood diseases.
• Pregnant women and women planning pregnancy.
• People living in special groups (homes for the disabled and elderly, boarding schools)

Epidemiological:

• People who come into contact with a large number of potentially infected people (service workers, trade workers, public transport workers, and others).
• Medical workers, teachers.
• Children attending kindergarten or school, students.

The chance of getting infected increases significantly with a weakened immune system. To prevent seasonal flu, vaccination and preventive measures are recommended.

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Flu Season 2017 – Infection is Already in the Air

With the arrival of the first cold weather, the issue of infectious and cold diseases becomes especially relevant. And this is not surprising, since from year to year the mutating virus affects more and more people, causing many painful symptoms and serious complications. The danger of the disease during this period is explained by the weakening of the body. The seasonal virus is in the air in the summer, but the chances of getting infected with it are minimal. This is due to the fact that the body receives solar energy and vitamins, which increase resistance and improve the immune status.

The flu itself is not dangerous, unlike its atypical form, which is characterized by rapid development and the risk of death. Also, do not forget about new strains, the spread of which over large areas causes epidemics, paralyzing the lives of many people and even entire countries. The disease spreads by airborne droplets, and in different climate zones at different times, but always with the onset of cold weather. Let's consider the pathogenesis of influenza in more detail:

• Penetration into the respiratory tract and reproduction in epithelial cells.
• Passage of non-specific airway resistance factors.
• Gradual destruction of affected cells.
• Catarrhal syndrome, toxemia.
• Restoration and formation of immunity.

In order to become infected, it is enough to spend a few minutes in the same room with a sick person. The disease has a short incubation period, so the first symptoms may appear a couple of hours after infection. According to medical statistics, during the epidemic, every eighth adult and every fourth child are sick.

The 2017 flu season will not differ from previous ones in its symptoms. The following signs are characteristic of infection: a sharp attack of chills, drowsiness and increased fatigue, pain in the joints and muscles. If there is an elevated body temperature and a runny nose, then these are clear manifestations of seasonal flu. At this stage, the immune system enters into battle with the virus. Discomfort can last for a couple of days, after which the state of health improves. If this does not happen and the disease progresses, then this threatens serious complications.

Flu Symptoms 2017

Flu is characterized by an acute onset and a short incubation period of 1-2 days. The clinical picture is accompanied by catarrhal and intoxication syndrome. The disease causes severe headaches, a sharp increase in temperature, runny nose, cough, pain behind the breastbone, nosebleeds and gum sensitivity are also possible. Tachycardia and bradycardia may develop due to unstable blood pressure. Painful sensations in muscles, joints and bones appear. Cough may be complicated by tracheitis, and hoarseness and breathing difficulties indicate croup.

Symptoms of flu 2017 depend on its stage and form:

Mild (subclinical)

• Weakness and headaches.
• Increase in body temperature to 38 °C.
• Severe hyperemia of the mucous membrane of the larynx, pharynx and nose.
• Mild or absent infectious toxicosis.

Medium-heavy

• Severe intoxication (chills, increased sweating, headaches and muscle pain, weakness).
• Body temperature up to 39 °C.
• Catarrhal symptoms (hyperemia of the soft palate and posterior pharyngeal wall).
• Respiratory pathologies (runny nose, chest pain, cough, damage to the larynx and trachea).
• Diarrhea and vomiting attacks.
• Complications are possible (otitis, sinusitis, neuritis).

Heavy

• Body temperature up to 40 °C.
• Clouding of consciousness.
• Muscle cramps.
• Hallucinations.
• Cardiovascular disorders (nosebleeds, hemorrhages in the soft palate).
• Complications of varying severity (bacterial infections, bronchitis, pneumonia, tracheitis).

Hypertoxic

• Severe respiratory failure.
• Hemodynamic disorders and encephalopathy.
• Body temperature above 40 °C.
• Hyperthermia (dehydration, rapid breathing, hypoxia).
• Meningismus (irritation of the brain or spinal cord).

The latter form in most cases causes death. The presence of dangerous cerebral syndromes is due to the neurotropic nature of the influenza virus. Encephalic, meningeal and convulsive symptoms occur against the background of high temperature. These symptoms may be accompanied by abdominal syndrome, dyspepsia, gastrointestinal pain, nausea and vomiting.

Features of flu 2017

Every year, experts from the World Health Organization give a forecast of which flu strains will be active in the upcoming epidemic season. According to experts, the peculiarities of the 2017 flu will consist of the circulation of three strains at once: H1N1, H3N2 Hong Kong and Brisbane. Swine flu has been known to the world since 2009, so most people have developed immunity to it. The other two strains are new, so an increase in the incidence rate is possible.

The first waves of the seasonal disease are already approaching, but its peak is expected in January-February. The increase in the incidence is associated with the arrival of cold weather and the spread of respiratory viruses. As in previous years, the best way to prevent the disease is vaccination. It is better to get vaccinated in September-November, this will give the immune system the opportunity to develop the necessary antibodies and resist the virus. Timely prevention and proper treatment will help prevent various complications of the disease.

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Complications of flu 2017

Incorrect or untimely treatment of acute infectious diseases can cause serious complications. Flu 2017 can provoke the following pathological conditions:

1. Respiratory complications are the most common pathologies. Patients experience bronchitis, lung abscesses, pneumonia, sinusitis, maxillary sinusitis, otitis.
   • Pneumonia can be caused by viruses and bacteria. It is characterized by a sharp increase in temperature that persists for a long period of time, a dry cough with blood, and increased sweating. This condition requires urgent treatment, since without medical care it leads to death.
   • Sinusitis is an inflammation of the maxillary sinuses. Without proper treatment, the infection spreads throughout the body. The patient complains of nasal congestion and thick discharge from the sinuses, headaches and toothaches, discomfort when pressing on the cheeks and forehead.
   • Otitis is an inflammatory disorder of the middle ear that can lead to hearing loss. Patients suffer from shooting pain in the ear, purulent discharge, and fever.
2. Complications of the cardiovascular system - shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, pain in the heart area. Very often, flu provokes inflammation of the heart muscle, which in turn causes heart failure.
3. Diseases of the nervous system – polyneuritis, neuralgia, inflammation of the meninges and other pathologies.
   • Meningitis - headaches, nausea and vomiting, photophobia.
   • Arachnoiditis – bursting headaches, discomfort in the forehead and bridge of the nose, bouts of nausea and dizziness.

To avoid complications of the flu, it is necessary to take preventive measures and not self-medicate.

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What is the difference between a cold and the flu?

Mild malaise, weakness, fever and chills are the first signs of the disease. What is the difference between a cold and flu if the symptoms of these pathologies and the ways of infection are similar?

1. Influenza is an acute infectious disease, its virus spreads and mutates quickly, which leads to frequent epidemics.
2. A cold is a disorder that occurs due to hypothermia. The main symptoms appear in the respiratory system, gradually developing into more complex forms.

Flu is an independent disease with acute symptoms, and the signs of a cold depend on its localization. That is, it can proceed both acutely and sluggishly, but does not cause life-threatening complications. It is very important to distinguish between these pathologies. The main risk group for both diseases is people with a weakened immune system, children, pensioners, pregnant women. Flu and colds have similar symptoms, but their manifestations have a number of distinctive features:

• Infection – with flu, the virus spreads rapidly, symptoms develop very quickly. With a cold, the infection affects the body slowly and sluggishly, symptoms progress.
• The first signs - with the flu, the temperature rises sharply, accompanied by body aches, headaches and intoxication. With a cold, a runny nose, sore throat and cough, subfebrile temperature appear.
• Cough - a cold is characterized by a slight sore throat, which can develop into a rough cough. With the flu, the cough is accompanied by copious sputum and chest pain.
• Headaches and muscle pains – the flu causes severe intoxication and discomfort throughout the body. Attacks of nausea and vomiting, severe cramps, and eye pain are possible. A cold is characterized by a state of exhaustion and weakness.
• Recovery – the duration of this period depends entirely on the immune system. A cold passes more quickly and does not cause complications. Flu is characterized by a long recovery, which is accompanied by weakness and drowsiness.

Knowing the main differences between flu and cold, you can independently determine the onset of an acute seasonal disease. This will allow you to take appropriate treatment measures and reduce the risk of complications from the disease.

How to treat flu 2017?

The main danger of an acute infectious disease is its rapid development. Knowing the symptoms of the virus and how to treat flu 2017 can prevent its complications. At the first signs of malaise, it is recommended to consult a doctor. Self-medication for influenza lesions is unacceptable, especially for children and the elderly.

To treat seasonal influenza infection 2017, it is necessary:

• Drink plenty of fluids, eat healthy food and rest – the patient needs rest, hot drinks in the form of herbal teas, fruit drinks, natural juices and a complete balanced diet.
• Antipyretics - to alleviate the condition, it is recommended to take Paracetamol, Acetylsalicylic acid, NSAIDs.
• Vasoconstrictors to facilitate nasal breathing and medications to thin and remove mucus.
• Antitussives – prescribed to relieve chest pain caused by a strong, hacking cough. Most often, patients are prescribed Pertussin, Libexin, Tusuprex, various herbal infusions for wet and night coughs.

All medications should be prescribed by a doctor. It is better to treat flu after consulting with a therapist.

How to prevent flu this 2016-2017 season?

Autumn is in full swing, so prevention of viral diseases is quite relevant. In order to prevent flu in the current 2016-2017 season, it is necessary to adhere to the following recommendations:

1. Strengthening the immune system's protective properties

• Good nutrition and sleep.
• Physical activity.
• Taking vitamins and minerals.
• Hardening.
• Giving up bad habits.

2. Vaccination is recommended for people with chronic diseases, children, the elderly, pregnant women. Vaccination is necessary for everyone whose work is connected with a large number of people (salespeople, social workers, teachers, doctors, military personnel and many others).

The following types of vaccines are distinguished:

• Live whole-virion - they contain a live virus, which when it enters the body forms immunity to a certain strain. Can cause side effects and has many contraindications.
• Whole-virion - contain a killed, purified virus. They have fewer disadvantages than live ones, but are still used extremely rarely.
• Split vaccines – they contain internal and surface antigens, which, thanks to special purification, have a minimum of side effects and contraindications.
• Subunit – contain surface purified proteins of the virus. Much safer than split vaccines, used to prevent seasonal diseases.

All the above vaccines have different indications for use and a number of contraindications. That is why influenza immunization should be carried out only on a doctor's referral.

3. Personal hygiene – since the flu is transmitted by airborne droplets, following basic hygiene rules will help prevent infection. To reduce the risk of infection, you must:

• Avoid close contact with the sick person and use a mask if necessary.
• Wash your hands frequently with soap and running water or use alcohol-based products and wipes.
• Regularly ventilate the living space and carry out wet cleaning.
• Do not touch your face with dirty hands.

Prevention can also be carried out with the help of special drugs. As a rule, this is necessary for people who have been in contact with infected people or have a weakened immune system. To prevent the disease, standard anti-flu drugs are used, but in a lower dosage.

Flu 2017, like seasonal epidemics of previous years, can cause high mortality. The risk of death is associated with the development of dangerous complications of the disease and its improper treatment.