Influenza A virus

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Influenza A virus
SpecialtyVirology, Epidemiology, Infectious disease
SymptomsFever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, fatigue, headache
ComplicationsPneumonia, bronchitis, sinus infections, ear infections
Usual onset1-4 days after exposure
Duration1-2 weeks
CausesInfluenza A virus
Diagnostic methodRapid influenza diagnostic test, Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR)
PreventionInfluenza vaccine, hand hygiene, respiratory etiquette
TreatmentAntiviral medication, symptomatic treatment


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Influenza A - late passage

Influenza A virus is a type of orthomyxovirus that causes influenza, an acute respiratory illness commonly referred to as the flu. The virus is responsible for seasonal flu epidemics and occasional pandemics, such as the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic and the 2009 H1N1 pandemic. Influenza A virus has multiple subtypes, which are classified based on the surface proteins hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA). The virus primarily infects birds but can also infect humans and other animals.

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Symptoms of influenza

Transmission[edit | edit source]

Influenza A virus spreads primarily through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can also be transmitted by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching the nose, mouth, or eyes.

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Viruses

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

Symptoms of influenza A virus infection typically appear within 1-4 days of exposure and may include:

  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Sore throat
  • Muscle aches
  • Fatigue
  • Headache
  • Chills

Complications[edit | edit source]

In some cases, influenza A virus infection can lead to severe complications, including:

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Influenza A virus infection can be diagnosed using a variety of laboratory tests, including rapid influenza diagnostic tests (RIDTs) and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR).

Prevention[edit | edit source]

The primary method for preventing influenza A virus infection is the annual influenza vaccine. Other preventive measures include practicing good hand hygiene, covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and avoiding close contact with infected individuals.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for influenza A virus infection may include antiviral medications, such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu) or zanamivir (Relenza), which can reduce the severity and duration of symptoms if taken early in the course of the illness. Symptomatic treatment, such as rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medications, can also help alleviate symptoms.

References[edit | edit source]

External links[edit | edit source]

Influenza A virus Resources




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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD