Medical expert of the article
New publications
Influenza: prevention
Last reviewed: 19.11.2021
All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.
We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.
Specific prevention of influenza
Specific prevention of influenza is based on the use of live or inactivated vaccines. Vaccination against influenza is carried out in the autumn-winter period. The protective effect persists for at least a year. Currently, inactivated influenza vaccines are used, which have low reactogenicity, high degree of safety and sufficient immunogenicity. Vaccination reduces the incidence of disease and contributes to an easier, uncomplicated course of the disease.
Nonspecific prevention of influenza
Prevention of influenza is reduced to isolating patients, providing medical care at home when epidemic outbreaks occur. During the epidemic in hospitals, visits to patients are canceled, children's entertainment is limited to children. Persons in constant contact with the patient. Should wear 4-layer gauze bandages (masks) both in hospitals and at home.
Nonspecific prevention of influenza is based on the application of:
- chemotherapy drugs [rimantadine. Oseltamivir. Arbidol (methylphenylthiomethyl-dimethylaminomethyl-hydroxybromoindole carboxylic acid ethyl ester)];
- immunopreparations (interferon preparations and interferon inducers).
Apply methods and means to prevent infection (adaptogens, vitamins, hardening).
It is necessary to ventilate the room where the patients are. Recommended ultraviolet irradiation and wet treatment of premises 0,2-0.3% solution of chloramine B or other disinfectants. Linen, towels and handkerchief patients must be boiled, and floors and furniture should be treated with disinfectant solutions.