Influenza

Infection with the influenza virus usually starts abruptly with sweats and chills, muscular aches and pains in the limbs, dry sore throat, cough and high temperature. Someone with flu may be bedbound and unable to go about usual activities, and this differentiates it from viruses which cause a cold and are not so severe. There is often a period of generalised weakness and malaise following the worst of the symptoms, which may last a week or more. A dry cough may also persist for some time. Advice on managing flu includes:

• Drink adequate fluids to avoid dehydration 
• Take paracetamol or ibuprofen for symptomatic relief 
• Rest in bed if fatigued
• Stay off work or school if unwell. For most people, about one week will be adequate
• Fever and associated systemic symptoms of uncomplicated flu usually resolve after about one week, although some symptoms (such as cough and fatigue) may persist for several weeks after resolution of fever
• Follow-up is required if there is no improvement of significant illness after one week, or deterioration
• Be more concerned in a young child or baby with influenza, with a low threshold for review.
• Seek urgent medical attention (see also Covid-19) if:
  • Severe illness or ‘collapse’
  • Shortness of breath or pleuritic chest pain
  • Severe or productive cough, persisting high fever
  • Delirium or confusion – particularly in the elderly
  • Coughing up blood (haemoptysis). 

Immunisation plans 

Concerns about the early start of the flu season, with very high case rates occurring in Australia over 2022, and the potential for two significant respiratory viruses circulating together (a “twindemic”), has meant that all those over 50 years of age are being targeted for immunisation with both flu and Covid-19 vaccines, alongside high-risk patients. 

Secondary school children in years seven, eight and nine will also be targeted for flu vaccine.