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Press Release/31 January 2002 Influenza is an acute viral disease of the respiratory tract characterized by fever, headache, runny nose, sore throat, cough and muscle pains. Not all cases with an admitting diagnosis of influenza are discharged with the same diagnosis. Usually, these cases turn out to be UTI (urinary tract infection), dengue, tonsillitis, pharyngitis, etc. Influenza is a self-limiting disease and recovery is expected within 2-7 days. The virus is spread through the air usually among crowded populations and in enclosed places like movie houses, LRT coaches, buses, and malls. Sick individuals are advised to stay home, rest and drink plenty of fluids. Paracetamol may be taken for fever. If symptoms persist, consult a physician. There are three major types of influenza virus. Each has subtypes and each subtype has various strains. There is no influenza vaccine that can protect an individual from all strains or subtypes. Influenza surveillance conducted by the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine and the Bureau of Research and Laboratories reported that the predominant strain, H3N2, is circulating in Metro Manila. The current vaccine, which is commercially available, is effective. Vaccination against influenza is recommended for person aged 65 and over, those with chronic diseases, residents and care providers of nursing homes. It takes 1-2 weeks after vaccination to be protected. |