H1N1 Pandemic Influenza - Treatment

TREATMENT:

In the majority of people, H1N1 influenza A, like most viral illnesses, is self limited. This means that your own immune system will adequately combat the infection within 5-10 days. Here are some things to do to relieve the symptoms of influenza:

ANTIVIRAL MEDICATIONS:
Persons with suspected H1N1 influenza A who develop an uncomplicated febrile illness typically do not require treatment unless they are at higher risk for influenza complications.  The CDC recommends the use of oseltamivir (Tamiflu) or zanamivir (Relenza) for the treatment and/or prevention of infection in individuals who are at high risk* for influenza complications. Oseltamivir (Tamiflu) is available at the Student Health Service for students who fall into this category.

* Individuals who are at high risk for influenza complications include:

• Children younger than 5 years old. The risk for severe complications from seasonal influenza is highest among children younger than 2 years old.
• Adults 65 years of age and older.
• Persons with the following conditions:
  • Chronic pulmonary (including asthma), cardiovascular (except hypertension), renal, hepatic, hematological (including sickle cell disease), neurologic, neuromuscular, or metabolic disorders (including diabetes mellitus);
  • Immunosuppression, including that caused by medications or by HIV;
  • Pregnant women;
  • Persons younger than 19 years of age who are receiving long-term aspirin therapy;
  • Residents of nursing homes and other chronic-care facilities.

FEVER, HEADACHE, MUSCLE ACHES:
For fevers over 101 degrees use: Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, etc.) or Acetaminophen (Anacin 3, Tylenol, etc.). Make certain of the correct dose (400-600mg Ibuprofen or 650mg Acetaminophen every 4 hours as needed). Avoid aspirin as this may be associated with Reye's syndrome.

FATIGUE:
Get plenty of rest--it's the most important treatment of all. Fatigue may be the last symptom to subside.

NASAL CONGESTION:
An oral decongestant (Sudafed) may decrease nasal congestion. Breathing moist air can soothe inflamed nasal passages.

SORE THROAT:
Gargle with a mixture of 1/2 tsp. salt in an 8 ounce glass of warm water every 2-4 hours to help reduce swelling, cleanse the throat, and lessen pain. Lozenges or throat sprays are also useful.

COUGH:
A cough syrup may help. However, do not overuse a cough suppressant because some cough is helpful in clearing your infection. Drink lots of fluids (the equivalent of 6 to 8 eight ounce glasses of water a day).

POOR APPETITE:
Drink plenty of fluids to soothe the throat, loosen secretions, and help relieve nasal congestion. Eat and drink healthy foods that appeals to you.

CALL THE STUDENT HEALTH SERVICE (336-758-5218) IF YOU DEVELOP:

• Symptoms lasting over 5 days without signs of improvement.
• Fever persisting for more than 2 or 3 days or any fever over 103 degrees not relieved by Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen.
• Severe cough or cough producing large amounts of phlegm.
• Severe sore throat and difficulty swallowing.
• Wheezing, shortness of breath, or chest pain.
• Severe headaches.