Influenza

J09/J10.0-1/J10.8/J11.0-1/J11.8

• Description
• General measures
• Medicine treatment
• Referral

DESCRIPTION

Influenza is a self-limiting viral condition that may last up to 14 days. It presents with headache, muscular pain and fever, and begins to clear within 7 days. Malnourished children, the elderly and debilitated patients are at greater risk of developing complications.

CAUTION

Malaria, measles, and HIV seroconversion may present with flu-like symptoms.

Complications

Secondary bacterial infections, including:

• pneumonia secondary to influenza
• otitis media
• sinusitis

GENERAL MEASURES

• Bed rest, if feverish.
• Ensure adequate hydration.
• Advise patient to return to clinic if earache, tenderness or pain over sinuses develops and/or cough or fever persists for longer than a week.

MEDICINE TREATMENT

Note: Antibiotics are of no value for the treatment of influenza.

Infants

• Sodium chloride 0.9%, instilled into each nostril.

Pain and fever with distress:

Children

• Paracetamol, oral, 10-15 mg/kg/dose 4–6 hourly when required. See paediatric dosing tool.

Adults

• Paracetamol, oral, 1 g 4–6 hourly when required to a maximum of 4 doses per 24 hours.
  • Maximum dose: 15 mg/kg/dose.
  • Maximum dose: 4 g in 24 hours.

REFERRAL

Severe complications.