Influenza A Diagnosis and Management
General Information
- The patient is contagious from 1 day before symptoms start until approximately 5-7 days after becoming sick 1
- Most people recover at home within 5-7 days with supportive care including rest, fluids, and fever-reducing medications 1
Home Care Recommendations
- Ensure adequate rest and fluid intake 1
- Isolate the patient from other household members when possible, especially those at high risk for complications 2
- Practice strict hand hygiene with soap and water or alcohol-based hand sanitizer 2
- Cover coughs and sneezes with tissues or the elbow 2
Warning Signs for Immediate Medical Evaluation
- Difficulty breathing, shortness of breath, or rapid breathing (≥30 breaths per minute in adults) 1, 3
- Chest pain or pressure 3
- Oxygen saturation below 92% if measured at home 3
- Blue or gray lips or face 1
- Persistent high fever beyond 5 days or fever that improves then returns 3
- Confusion, altered mental status, or difficulty waking 1, 3
- Severe dizziness or inability to stand 3
- Persistent vomiting preventing fluid intake 1
- Seizures 1
Special Considerations for High-Risk Patients
- The American College of Physicians and other guideline societies recommend that patients with high-risk conditions such as age 65 years or older, children under 2 years, pregnancy, chronic lung disease, heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease, diabetes, or weakened immune system contact their physician promptly as they may benefit from antiviral treatment even if symptoms are mild 1, 4
Preventing Spread to Others
- Household members should avoid close contact with the ill person when possible 2
- Household members should wash hands frequently, especially after contact with the patient or contaminated surfaces 2
- Household members may consider wearing masks when providing direct care 2
- Ensuring all household members receive annual influenza vaccination is recommended 2