12/20/2025
Influenza A is widespread right now, and it’s more than just a bad cold.
Influenza is a viral illness that commonly causes fever, cough, congestion, sore throat, headaches, body aches, vomiting, diarrhea, and significant fatigue. Symptoms can last 7–10 days, and recovery may take even longer.
While many people recover with supportive care, influenza can lead to serious complications—especially in young children, older adults, pregnant individuals, and those with chronic conditions like asthma, heart disease, or diabetes.
Complications we are actively seeing include:
• Dehydration from poor intake and vomiting
• Asthma exacerbations and severe asthma attacks
• Myositis (muscle inflammation), particularly in children
• Pneumonia, which with influenza is often caused by MRSA
• Myocarditis (inflammation of the heart)
• Neurologic complications such as encephalitis, Guillain-Barré syndrome, and ADEM
• Sepsis and, in severe cases, multi-organ failure
Early recognition matters. Antiviral treatment (such as oseltamivir) is most effective when started within the first 48 hours of symptoms and can reduce severity and complications—especially in high-risk patients.
Prevention is still our best defense:
• Annual flu vaccination significantly reduces severe illness and hospitalization
• Stay home when sick to limit spread
• Good hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette help protect others
• Seek medical care for worsening symptoms, breathing difficulty, dehydration, or persistent high fever
Influenza should be taken seriously. Awareness, early treatment, and prevention can save lives.
