Proactive approach the best defence against flu

As doctors brace themselves for the upcoming flu season, parents are urged to schedule immunizations for at-risk youngsters and seek early treatment when symptoms are present.
“There is no reason to believe that the upcoming flu season will not be just as significant as those of the past three to four years,” said Prof Robin Green, Head of Paediatric Pulmonology at Pretoria Academic Hospital and lead author of the 2008 Flu Guidelines commissioned by the South African Thoracic Society.

“Many parents still believe that it is OK to “let flu run its course” – but this is a mistake as flu is a major cause of illness and death,” said Green. “Parents must constantly be vigilant to preferably prevent the flu by seeking a flu vaccine. If flu does occur it is essential to seek medical help and see a doctor to treat flu early with a prescription antiviral called Tamiflu. ”

The flu -- formally known as “influenza” -- is transmitted through contact with an infected person, through droplets or contaminated items. The virus produces a febrile respiratory tract illness that can lead to pneumonia and bronchitis, which can be severe enough to result in hospitalization or in some cases even death.

It is important for parents to differentiate between Colds and Flu. Flu commonly occurs during the period April - August in South Africa. Classic flu symptoms include a sudden onset of fever, frequently with chills; headache, malaise, muscle pain and a dry, hacking cough. Flu spreads very quickly and children deteriorate rapidly once the flu strikes.
“But, there is no reason to suffer in silence,” Green added. “If the flu is diagnosed early, Tamiflu - which is an antiviral therapy can be given to shorten the course and severity of the illness. More importantly it can be given to children from age 1 year old.”