INFLUENZA VIRUS

MEMBERS:
Adlawan, April Jean
Billa, Alayssa
Dawili, Whidz

DESCRIPTION OF DISEASE
Influenza is a viral infection that attacks your respiratory
system, your nose, throat, and lungs. Influenza is commonly
called the flu, but it’s not the same as stomach flu viruses that
cause diarrhea and vomiting.
For most people, influenza resolves on its own. But sometimes,
influenza and its complications can be deadly.

PREVALENCE
The duration and severity of influenza epidemics vary, however,
depending on the virus subtype involved. The WHO estimates
that worldwide, annual influenza epidemics result in about 3-5
million cases of severe illness and about 250,000 to 500,000
deaths.

MODE OF TRANSMISSION
Influenza virus may be transmitted among humans in three
ways: (1) by direct contact with infected individuals; (2) by
contact with contaminated objects (called fomites, such as toys,
doorknobs); and (3) by inhalation of virus-laden aerosols. The
contribution of each mode to overall transmission of influenza
is not known. However, CDC recommendations to control
influenza virus transmission in health care settings include
measures that minimize spread by aerosol and fomite
mechanisms.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

 Fever over 100.4 F (38 C)
 Aching muscles
 Chills and sweats
 Headache
 Dry, persistent cough
 Fatigue and weakness
 Sore throat
 Stuffy nose

CONTROL AND PREVENTION

Influenza viruses cause recurring illnesses among individuals
and recurring epidemics among populations. The major
effective control measure for preventing infection and illness is
inactivated vaccine, which can prevent influenza illnesses and
their complications when given before exposure to the virus.

 Get vaccinated
 Stay home when you’re sick
 Cover your mouth and nose
  Clean your hands
 Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth
 Exercise
 Eat healthy

REFERENCES
Subbarao, Kanta. "Influenza Viruses." In Principles and Practice
of Pediatric Infectious Diseases , 2nd ed. Edited by Sarah S.
Long et al. St. Louis, MO: Elsevier, 2003.
Wright, Peter. "Influenza Viruses." In Nelson Textbook of
Pediatrics.  Edited by Richard E. Behrman et al. Philadelphia:
Saunders, 2004.