Signs of A/H1N1 flu infection

People infected with influenza A/H1N1 often have symptoms similar to seasonal flu.

Dr. Truong Huu Khanh, former Head of the Department of Infectious Diseases and Neurology, Children's Hospital 1, said that influenza A/H1N1 is a virus that spreads from person to person, has a high rate of infection, and can easily become an epidemic. The disease has a diverse clinical course, with many severe cases, rapid progression, and a risk of death.

Patients often have symptoms similar to other seasonal flu strains such as fever above 38 degrees Celsius, chills, sore throat, headache, cough, runny nose, fatigue, and weakness. Because the symptoms are similar to the common cold, the disease can only be accurately diagnosed through a nasopharyngeal swab test.

Influenza A/H1N1 can be transmitted through the respiratory tract, that is, secretions and droplets when a patient coughs or sneezes and is released into the environment; or through contact, when accidentally touching surfaces containing the virus, then touching the eyes, nose, or mouth. Sharing utensils, drinking glasses, or toothbrushes with a sick person can also transmit the virus.

Most people recover within a week without treatment, but some people are hospitalized with severe symptoms and die. Those at risk of serious complications include children under 5 years old, especially those under 2 years old, pregnant women, and people with chronic diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Severe symptoms include difficulty breathing, pneumonia, respiratory failure, and convulsions.

To prevent this, Dr. Khanh recommends that everyone should maintain personal hygiene, wear a mask, and wash their hands with soap regularly. When sneezing or coughing, cover your mouth and nose with your elbow to avoid spreading secretions around.

Avoid close contact with sick or suspected flu patients. Regularly clean and wipe surfaces, objects, and floors with soap or common detergents; open windows to ventilate your home, classroom, or office.

Everyone should closely monitor their own health and that of their family. If they have symptoms of fever, cough, or sore throat during the epidemic, they should immediately go to a medical facility for isolation. Early recognition and detection of signs of illness can help with timely treatment and minimize deaths.

"The best way to prevent the flu is to get vaccinated every year. Families should take their children to get vaccinated on schedule, with enough doses, and booster shots," Dr. Khanh advised.

According toVnExpress