Treemont Retirement Blog

Healthy Tips for Seniors Houston Assisted Living: Influenza

• What is Influenza? 

  • The CDC defines this condition as a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus that affects the nose, throat and lungs.

  Signs and Symptoms

  • After exposure to the virus it may take 1 to 4 days to begin to experience the symptoms of this conditionSigns and Symptoms of this condition may include:
    • Fever
    • Cough
    • Sore throat
    • Runny or stuffy nose
    • Body or muscle aches
    • Headaches

    • Feeling very tired (Fatigue)

  How it spreads

  • Experts believe that this virus is spread by droplets made by the person that is contagious by coughing, sneezing or talking. These droplets can land on your mouth or nose if youA person can be contagious as soon as day 1 before symptoms developed up to 5 to 7 days after becoming sick.

  Complications

  • These may include: pneumonia, ear infections, dehydration, sinus infections and worsening of other medical conditions such as congestive heart failure, diabetes or asthma.

  Prevention

  • The CDC recommends getting the flu vaccine every year as well as preventive measures such as like staying away from people who are sick as well as frequent handwashing.

  Diagnosis

  • There are several tests that can be done to diagnose this condition. The most common test is the rapid influenza diagnostic test. It consists of swiping the inside of your nose or the back of your throat with a swab and then sending the swab for testing

  Treatment:

  • There are influenza antiviral drugs that are used for treatment of this condition. Names include: Tamiflu, Relenza, and Rapivad.
    Also, always remember to consult with your doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.
  For more Information you may contact call Ana Vazquez RN, ADON @ 832-627-6470
  Reference https://www.alarms.org/flu-statistics/