Flu treatment and prevention
In patients not expected to in those with complications, the flu virus (influenza) is treated symptomatically, ie it will only alleviate the symptoms occur and may reduce the fever. If possible stay in bed you should, drink a lot and take care of himself. If there is bacterial superinfection, that is able to infections with bacteria that are facilitated by the weakened immune system, these are treated with antibiotics. It is advisable to consult a doctor if it is suspected that there might be a flu virus, so that any complications can be treated immediately.
In high-risk patients, antiviral treatment may be necessary
It consists in at-risk persons (eg elderly people or patients with heart disease or diabetes) the risk that complications could occur, to antiviral treatment may be needed. These drugs are used, which combat the virus directly.
Available drugs are of two classes of compounds: inhibitors of a viral membrane protein (M2) and neuraminidase inhibitors. M2 protein inhibitors prevent the virus from entering the nucleus of body cells. They may however be used only against influenza A viruses and lead relatively quickly to resistant pathogens. Neuraminidase inhibitors block the activity of the surface protein neuraminidase, which the release of new viruses is being affected. Neuraminidase inhibitors may be used Against influenza A and B viruses Inluenza. By treatment with neuraminidase inhibitors, there is less resistance.
Prevention: Vaccination against influenza
The most effective way to protect oneself against the flu virus by Allowing vaccinated. Vaccination should, if possible, before the flu season - will be conducted from October to November -. However, it can be made up later, such as when to expect a flu epidemic. It takes about two weeks, however, is fully formed until a vaccination.
The immunization coverage is at about 90% healthy when he's adapted well to the circulating virus types. The Permanent Vaccination at the Robert Koch Institute (STIKO) recommends the flu shot include people over 60 years, the chronically ill (such as diabetes, COPD, asthma, heart failure or HIV) employees in medical fields or professionals who deal come in contact with strangers. In addition, general precautions are recommended for prophylaxis (eg, regular hand washing, preferably no handshakes, etc.).