General Points on Patient Care
This fact sheet provides basic information for health care providers.
Typical influenza infections
- A sudden fever (38°C or higher) and cough are the main indicators for influenza when it is prevalent in the community. Other nonspecific symptoms may include sore throat, runny nose, chills, weakness, and aching muscles.
- With adequate fluids and bed rest, most patients recover from influenza without serious complications. Their temperature returns to normal over six days. Respiratory symptoms may increase, but lung capacity is unaffected. There is lingering fatigue and weakness for up to six weeks.
