Influenza

Influenza

Influenza, commonly known as Flu, is a viral infection that causes fever, congestion problems, fatigue and other symptoms similar to the common cold.

Our Doctors can provide prescriptions for the prevention or treatment of Flu in the form of Tamiflu. Please select the treatment below and proceed to complete the short medical questionnaire.

Influenza and the common cold

It is easy to mistake the common cold for the flu. The symptom profile of the flu is similar to that of the common cold but with more severe symptoms, which can leave affected people bedridden for a few days.

There are hundreds of virus strains, whereas only a few flu viruses can cause the cold per year.

Prevalence and risk

The flu is more prominent in the winter months and can affect anyone. It spreads via bodily fluids, such as sweat, mucus and saliva, which can remain on surfaces such as door handles, keyboards and unwashed hands. Once the virus enters the bloodstream, it begins to replicate and proliferate. The immune system of a healthy individual is capable of dealing with the infection. However, it can take a few days for symptoms to subside. Other health complications, such as bronchitis and pneumonia, can manifest in at-risk patients.

Two types of Influenza (A and B) are more prevalent in the UK during the winter months.

People with the following are at a higher risk of contracting the flu:

• Over 65 years of age
• Pregnant
• Diabetic
• Asthma
• Heart Conditions
• Immune conditions

If you are within the above categories, please inform the Doctor

Flu symptoms

The following are common flu symptoms, though they vary in intensity and prevalence from person to person. The symptoms occur within 48 hours and can result in you being bedridden for a few days.

• Sudden Fever
• Cough
• Sore Throat
• Aches and Pains
• Sinus Congestion
• Headaches
• Dehydration
• Fatigue
• Diarrhoea
• Nausea

Symptoms can last for up to a week, causing you to take a few days off work. It is important to keep yourself hydrated and get plenty of rest. Certain medications can help deal with the symptoms such as aches and congestion. If you experience severe debilitating symptoms, contact your regular GP for further medical assistance.

The most common complications from the flu are secondary Bacterial infections such as bronchitis, pneumonia and ear infections. If you experience any of the following symptoms, contact your GP.

• Earache
• Tinnitus (ringing in ears)
• Difficulty breathing
• Cough which lasts for more than 3 weeks

Treatment

Most of the symptoms can be managed successfully with over-the-counter medication such as decongestants, cough syrups or pain relief such as Paracetamol or Ibuprofen.

It is important to use a tissue when coughing or sneezing and dispose of tissues in the bin immediately. This can reduce virus transmission. Wipe down surfaces such as door handles and keyboards with antibacterial wipes, and wash your hands regularly to reduce the risk of infecting others.

The most effective way of reducing the risk of contracting the flu is by the Flu vaccine. If this is required, please contact your local GP surgery who will assist you further.

Tamiflu is an oral antiviral drug which specifically targets the flu virus. It can reduce the virus concentration and increase recovery time by a full day. It can also reduce the risk of contracting the flu.

You can buy Tamiflu by selecting the treatment above. After filling out a short questionnaire, our Doctors will review it and inform you if you are eligible.

References

https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/flu/

https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/seasonal-influenza-guidance-data-and-analysis