Winter is upon us and with comes an increase in respiratory infection, the vast majority of which are caused by various viruses. Most of these viruses cause head colds, sore throat and coughs. Generally they are not associated with significant fevers. There is usually a stuffy, runny nose, perhaps a sore throat. Generally the treatment is supportive - pain and fever medications, cough mixtures, throat lozenges/spray, nasal sprays etc. The risk of secondary bacterial infections is low (< 5%) in healthy children.
More sinister and worrying are the Influenza viruses (Type A & B) that cause far more significant respiratory illnesses - 'Flu'. The hallmarks of Influenza are the 'FACTS' of flu:
F = Fevers – typically high and associated with chills, shivering and even delirium and hallucinations.
A = Aches and pains- typically the whole body - muscles and joints. In children they often complain of a sore tummy or headache.
C = Cough - typically the illness starts in the chest with a dry cough, raspy, painful. In a cold it starts in the nose and moves down to the chest later.
T = Tiredness - this is usually significant and children are very lethargic.
S = Sudden onset within hours of being happy and well the temperatures appear.
The important differences between the two illnesses are these:
Influenza has a much higher rate of secondary infections (bacteria l - usually pneumonia, bronchitis, sinusitis, ear infections) and hospitalisations and may cause death!
Influenza is a viral infection that, unlike cold and other respiratory viruses, CAN BE KILLED! There is a safe and effective antiviral medication that stops the flu virus in its tracks and decreases the complications significantly. It is most effective if used early in the illness, certainly before 48 hours - the earlier the better. It can also be used in close contacts to prevent the spread of the virus to them. The medication is called oseltamivir (Trade name Tamiflu®; there is also a generic available).
If you or your children have the FACTS of flu, seek medical advice as soon as possible to confirm or refute the diagnosis and ask whether Tamiflu is needed.
This information is provided without prejudice by Dr Ralph R Gilbert (MbChB).