Be Alert to Influenza A
Influenza A should be taken seriously because it can cause more severe health problems than an ordinary cold. The viral infection can bring on a high fever, muscle aches and extreme fatigue, and may lead to serious complications such as pneumonia.
Internal medicine specialist Dr Resna Murti Wibowo explained that influenza A is a respiratory infection caused by influenza A viruses, including the H1N1 and H3N2 subtypes. Unlike the common cold, which is usually caused by rhinoviruses, influenza can cause more severe symptoms that appear suddenly.
Sudden onset is the key distinguishing feature
Influenza A is generally characterised by a fever above 38°C, a dry cough, sore throat, nasal congestion, headache, muscle aches and pronounced weakness. These symptoms can disrupt daily activities and make it difficult for people to function as usual.
“The main difference from an ordinary cold is how quickly the symptoms appear, along with a high fever and severe aches, which are rarely seen with a common cold,” Dr Resna said.
Symptoms alone, however, are not always enough to determine what kind of infection a person has. Medical assessment is needed if the condition worsens or warning signs appear.
Easily transmitted and capable of causing outbreaks
Influenza viruses spread mainly through respiratory particles released when an infected person coughs, sneezes or speaks. Transmission can also occur when someone touches a contaminated surface and then touches their eyes, nose or mouth.
“The virus’s ability to change is one reason influenza must remain a concern. If ignored, a surge in severe cases could not only burden healthcare facilities but also threaten the lives of vulnerable groups,” she said.
An infected person can transmit the virus from around a day before symptoms appear until several days after becoming ill. The contagious period may last longer in children and people with weakened immune systems.
Vulnerable groups face a higher risk of complications
Children under five, people aged 65 and over, pregnant women and women who have recently given birth are at greater risk of influenza complications. The risk is also higher for people with underlying conditions such as asthma, heart disease, diabetes and kidney disease, as well as those with weakened immune systems.
These groups should monitor their health closely and consult a healthcare professional promptly if they develop influenza symptoms.
Recognise warning signs and seek treatment
People should seek medical attention immediately if they experience shortness of breath, chest pain or pressure, confusion, a persistent high fever, or symptoms that improve and then worsen again.
“Treatment for influenza generally includes adequate rest, sufficient fluids and symptom-relief medicines as advised by a healthcare professional. Doctors may also prescribe antivirals such as oseltamivir, particularly for patients at risk of complications. Antiviral medicines generally work best when started as early as possible, ideally within the first 48 hours after symptoms begin,” Dr Resna said.
Influenza does not require antibiotics because it is caused by a virus. Antibiotics should be considered only if a doctor identifies a bacterial infection alongside it. The public is also advised not to take antibiotics without a prescription, as inappropriate use can increase the risk of antibiotic resistance.
Vaccination and healthy habits can help prevent transmission
Annual influenza vaccination is one preventive measure that can help reduce the risk of severe illness and complications. People are also advised to wash their hands regularly, follow good cough and sneeze etiquette, wear a mask when ill, and maintain clean surroundings and good ventilation.
Dr Resna stressed that vaccination remains important even though it does not provide absolute protection against every possible infection.
“Although it cannot guarantee complete protection from infection because the virus mutates rapidly, vaccinated people will have much milder symptoms and recover more quickly,” she said.
Campuses should support prevention
Campuses involve frequent close interaction, so prevention should be a priority for students and the wider academic community. Students who are ill should rest at home and follow the applicable academic absence procedures to reduce the risk of transmission.
“It is important to keep shared facilities clean by ensuring good ventilation, regularly cleaning frequently touched areas, and providing handwashing facilities and hand sanitiser in convenient locations,” Dr Resna said.
Universities can also support prevention through education on Clean and Healthy Living Behaviour (PHBS), providing hygiene facilities and sharing information about influenza vaccination.
Stay calm and do not ignore symptoms
In closing, Dr Resna urged the public to remain calm and follow preventive measures consistently. A healthy lifestyle, vaccination, resting when ill and seeking medical assessment if symptoms worsen are all important to protecting oneself and others.
“People should stay calm but alert. Influenza A is very preventable, treatable and controllable, provided there is care and discipline,” she said.