In the beginning of the school year, in addition to Norovirus, we should also be careful of influenza A...

Recently, some schools in Ningbo, Jinhua and Tianjin in Zhejiang Province have suspended classes, but the reason for the suspension is not the new coronavirus or norovirus infection, but the influenza A virus...

So, what is H1N1? How can it be treated? And how can it be prevented?

What is influenza A?

Influenza A is the abbreviation of influenza A, and the virus type is mainly H1N1 subtype. It is a respiratory infectious disease, and the susceptible population is children and the elderly. The time from infection to onset of influenza A is usually 1-7 days, mostly 2-4 days. The virus is mainly transmitted through respiratory secretions and droplets, and can also be transmitted through direct or indirect contact with the mucous membranes of organs such as the nose, mouth, and eyes. When the patient is ill, respiratory symptoms such as high fever (general body temperature > 38℃, up to 39~40℃), chills, cough, nasal congestion and sore throat may occur, accompanied by systemic discomfort symptoms such as muscle aches, headaches, drowsiness and convulsions, and sometimes digestive discomfort symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea and vomiting may occur. Influenza A has the characteristics of seasonal onset (winter and spring), strong infectivity, and wide prevalence.

How to treat it?

Most patients with influenza A have a good prognosis and a short recovery period. During the illness, they should drink plenty of water, rest and pay attention to nutrition. For general patients, symptomatic supportive treatment is the main treatment. When the fever is less than 38.5℃, physical cooling can be performed. For high fever (≥38.5℃), antipyretic drugs such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen can be used; those with cough and sputum should be given ambroxol, acetylcysteine, Feili Ke, Suhuang cough suppressants and other drugs; those with diarrhea can use probiotic preparations, montmorillonite powder, oral rehydration salts, etc.

People at high risk of severe illness or when the condition is severe should be given neuraminidase inhibitors for antiviral treatment in a timely manner, such as oseltamivir and peramivir. In addition, some traditional Chinese medicines can also be considered. It should be noted that antibacterial drugs are not routinely used for influenza A patients unless they are confirmed to have a bacterial infection. Patients should use drugs reasonably according to the doctor's prescription, and self-medication is not recommended.

How to prevent it?

It is recommended to get a flu vaccine once every autumn. This is the most effective way to prevent influenza A, especially for key populations.

Eat more vegetables and fruits, exercise moderately, maintain a regular schedule, and combine work and rest.

Keep the room well ventilated and clean.

The school season is also the peak season for influenza A. Schools must pay attention to indoor environmental hygiene and maintain regular ventilation. Disinfect the environment and items used by influenza A patients. Chlorine-containing disinfectants can be used to mop, wipe, soak, etc. The patient's clothing, bed sheets, and tableware should be soaked in chlorine-containing disinfectants for 30 minutes before washing. If a child is suspected of influenza A, parents should not use antiviral and antibacterial drugs without authorization, but should seek medical attention immediately. The child can return to school after recovery.