Influenza with cough and fever in a child. Influenza in children. Flu symptoms and treatment. Influenza and ARVI in children - the main clinical manifestations

Knowing how a child gets sick with the flu, what primary measures need to be taken in this case, a parent can protect his child from the severe course of the disease and its many complications. Fortunately, now there is a huge number of various drugs, it is not difficult to choose among which (of course, with the help of a qualified doctor), and the purchase itself will cost a reasonable price.

Relevance of the issue

Influenza symptoms in children can be observed literally every six months. The change of seasons, spring and autumn are periods when epidemics traditionally cover the whole country, and it is extremely difficult to protect yourself from infection. The common collective name "influenza" includes many different pathologies provoked by different pathogens with similar manifestations of infection, so vaccination, no matter how advertised, cannot provide 100% protection.

In the area of \u200b\u200bresponsibility of modern parents - to know what measures need to be taken to prevent infection, and what to do if the flu has begun in children. To navigate the issue, you need to understand the nature of the disease. It is customary to call influenza such a pathology provoked by viruses, for the treatment of which agents are used that affect the root cause, that is, the viral agent. Antimicrobial agents, for example, will not help with the flu - they will eliminate bacteria, but are ineffective against viruses.

By the way, sometimes antibiotics for influenza for children are still prescribed, but not at the initial stage of the disease. If at first a harmful virus enters the body, activating negative processes, immunity falls, there is a risk of getting infected with microbes and bacteria. If analyzes show such a secondary damage to the body, the doctor prescribes antimicrobial compounds. In fact, this is not so much a treatment for the flu itself, but rather complications associated with the course of a serious pathology.

It usually takes some time for the secondary lesion to develop. If you go to the doctor in time, they will first prescribe special drugs designed to eliminate viruses, and only over time, if there are indications for that, will they recommend taking an antimicrobial agent for influenza for children. Occasionally, doctors prescribe such drugs from the very onset of the disease, usually motivating this "just in case." This logic is categorically condemned by many experts.

What to do?

Normally, treatment of influenza in children involves the use of special agents designed to fight viruses. One of the most famous names in modern pharmacies is Anaferon. To treat a baby, you need to choose a special format, it is called “children's”. Under the influence of active components, the vital activity of the viral agent is inhibited, the colonies cannot grow. At the same time, the immune system is stimulated, all processes in the body are faster.

Treatment of influenza in children with antiviral drugs is reasonable if the baby is already sick, and laboratory research has confirmed that the cause is in the virus.

As a rule, the first day or even two doctors recommend refraining from any drug therapy, and only from the third day of the course of the disease to start supporting the body's forces by external means. Interferon-based drugs, as shown by tests, can shorten the time required for full recovery, and also significantly reduce the likelihood of complications. But all these advantages are possible only if the means are used correctly, under the supervision of a doctor, following the provisions of the instructions.

It is important to know

Frequently found in children include:

  • pneumonia;
  • bronchitis;
  • sinusitis.

Using a drug prescribed by a doctor, you can prevent the development of such pathologies. The recommended treatment program is continued as long as the doctor advised. Even if the primary signs of influenza in children have already exhausted themselves, but the doctor recommended that you drink any means after that, you should follow the instructions - as a rule, the doctor has serious reasons to believe that such treatment will actually be beneficial.

To be ill or not to be ill?

Those who produce antiviral drugs for influenza children are advised to use their developments not only when infected with an agent, but also as a prophylaxis in a period of high danger. As many experts agree, for such therapy, only medications developed to increase the activity of the immune system should be used. Some commercially available products designed specifically for children activate the generation of interferon by the internal systems.

Prevention of influenza in children involves the daily intake of a small dose of a drug that has the described features. Whether it is worth, in principle, to carry out such therapy, you first need to check with the doctor. It is also better to choose a specific remedy together with a doctor who can assess the needs of a particular child's body. In addition, specialists are better versed in the variety of products available in modern pharmacies.

Features of prevention

Means designed to prevent influenza in children can be used as a course. Manufacturers recommend drinking them for at least three weeks, but no more than a quarter of a year. Correct use medication helps to reduce the likelihood of infection during periods of high epidemiological risk. This is most important for children with weak immunity and for those who are allergic. The latter category is in particular danger, since the flu significantly aggravates the course of allergies, often posing a serious threat to life.

Signs and Control: Influenza in Children

“How many days the temperature is high, and still does not subside!” - sometimes it is with such complaints that parents, whose children are suffering, are infected with a harmful virus, turn to the doctor. Indeed, the disease under consideration is characterized by a significant and prolonged increase in temperature. It is not easy to transfer, and many try to take more antipyretic formulations from the very beginning in order to quickly drive away the unpleasant symptom. The popularity of such funds is growing by leaps and bounds. Many are firmly convinced that a simple antipyretic is a substance that can completely defeat the flu, although drugs do not actually cure it.

The most popular medicine for influenza for children from one year old, which lowers the temperature, is "Paracetamol", as well as numerous remedies developed on its basis. It must be remembered that they can bring down the fever, but they do not eliminate the virus: this is only a temporary measure of getting rid of a severe symptom that returns when the effect of the medication comes to an end.

Do I need it?

Since flu symptoms in children always suggest a serious fever, doctors pay special attention to parents: you need to be careful with this manifestation. As soon as the fever begins, you should not immediately take special medications, there will be no benefit from this. A feverish state lasting several days is a completely normal response of an organism that has detected a viral agent. Temperature is associated with the activation of immunity, so the body fights viruses faster. Taking an antipyretic, thereby a person weakens his own natural defenses.

Normally, for fever with flu in children, medications should be used if the temperature exceeds 38.5. The doctor may recommend taking such a remedy earlier if convulsive states were observed in the past with an increase in temperature. A special approach is required for children under 3 months old, as well as for people with chronic pathologies (age does not matter).

For help - to the doctor

Observing the primary symptoms of influenza in children, especially in a situation where the temperature has risen sharply and to very high, you should immediately seek help from a qualified doctor. It is not always possible to get an appointment, and the child's condition may not allow this, so it is necessary to call the district pediatrician at home, describing all the manifestations of the disease by phone. The doctor will examine, listen to the baby, formulate exactly what measures, means you need to apply first of all to alleviate the condition. It is often recommended to do warm water rubdowns - this method helps to fight the temperature, but does not require additional medications.

To combat other symptoms, the doctor additionally prescribes various means: products of the pharmaceutical industry, natural formulations. Influenza in children is usually accompanied by a sore throat and severe cough. The head may hurt. They use their own remedy for each of the manifestations.

Cough deserves special attention: there are several varieties of this symptom, each of which requires its own method of treatment. It can be "Lazolvan", drops "Herbion", tablets "Libexin" or "Bronholitin", etc.

If the flu is associated with a runny nose, it is recommended to use aerosols, nasal rinsing agents, and nose drops have been developed for very young children. TO effective drugs include "Aqualor", "Pinosol", "Tizin", etc. If additional symptoms are weak or, in principle, absent, there is no need for such funds.

Features of the disease

Influenza is equally dangerous for children and adults. The body's resistance to a viral agent decreases along with a cold snap, and the lack of vitamins in daily nutrition also plays a significant role, especially in winter and spring. Medicine knows many types of viruses that can provoke a disease. They are transmitted from sick to healthy through the air: if someone nearby coughs or sneezes, there is a high probability of catching an infection. You can also get a viral agent through common household items. A harmful life form quickly enters the bloodstream and can provoke serious negative consequences. Recently, various influenza vaccines for children have been more and more actively advertised, but their effectiveness is questionable - too many forms of viruses are common, while one vaccination saves only one type of pathogens.

This is curious

By the way, the first official mentions of the flu have reached our times since the fifth century BC. The disease was described by the ancient Greek Hippocrates in a two-volume work on epidemics. He called the disease catharsis and was convinced that a sharp increase in temperature, accompanied by the release of sweat, can cleanse the human body. Influenza is a word that appeared in 1743 and since then has gradually been used in world-class medical practice.

It is important to know: features of symptoms

The easiest way to get the flu is from someone who is already sick with the virus. The first five days of the course of the disease are especially dangerous, so parents, if the flu begins in a child of 3 years old (and of another age), should not only take care of their child, but also take measures so as not to become infected with the virus themselves, otherwise the epidemic will undermine the strength of the whole families at once. Accuracy, adherence to hygienic measures, isolation of the patient (within reason) allow you to preserve the health of the next of kin.

Many viruses are known (in particular, this is why flu vaccinations for children cause so much controversy) that can provoke similar symptoms:

  • when infected, a person feels chills;
  • fever worries him;
  • cough;
  • body aches;
  • headache;
  • under the influence of the virus, the mucous membranes suffer greatly, and the body as a whole finds itself in conditions of intoxication.

Often, children under the influence of the disease change significantly: they become lethargic, lose their appetite, and want to sleep. Quite quickly, the situation is supplemented with new symptoms - the temperature rises to 40.5, this persists for several days, and the cough becomes as if barking. The child complains of a sore throat, a runny nose persists.

Special case

With the flu, some children suffer from eye pain. If complications occur, there is a likelihood of symptoms indicating a negative effect on the central nervous system. The head may be dizzy, convulsive states, hallucinations are possible. Sometimes the child is sick, vomits. Influenza is often associated with intestinal disorders.

First control measures

It has already been indicated above that in the first two days of infection, doctors recommend refraining from using pharmaceutical products. It is known that viruses reproduce well in the cold, at high humidity, but they do not tolerate heat, therefore the most effective method elimination of the problem at the initial stage - an abundant hot drink.

You can do compresses, massage, put mustard plasters. Foot baths are recommended. Viruses are especially active if the body is cooled unevenly, so you need to be careful: do not go without a hat during a dangerous season, do not dress for the weather (for example, too warm).

As the child loses appetite, it is up to the parents not to insist on eating junk food. Limited nutrition helps cleanse the body's systems. Abundant food during a viral infection will in no way help maintain strength, on the contrary, it will worsen the child's condition. You need to eat exactly when you want it, and, as a rule, this indicates the beginning of recovery. But during the active phase of the disease, decoctions, infusions of medicinal herbs, juices, compotes come to the rescue.

Official approach

As doctors say, flu is one of the most common diseases on our planet. Almost a third of all cases of children's hospitalization are provoked by the flu. Up to 7% of children who died in stationary conditions died for this very reason. Every year, during the epidemic season, several tens of millions of children around the planet carry some form of flu, and more than half of this number are people under the age of 14.

Babies are in particular danger. As you know from medical reports, 65% of all cases of the disease among them are influenza. For this ailment, complications are more characteristic than for any other viral pathologies. During an epidemic of the disease, the death rate in the country rises sharply. This is damage not only to the health of the nation, but also to the economy of the state.

Official information

Influenza is provoked by orthomyxoviruses containing RNA. This agent spreads very quickly, the colonies are actively progressing, so the symptoms of the disease are pronounced. The respiratory tract is the first to suffer, and general toxicosis is soon observed. Although the disease is scary for people of all ages, the average incidence among minors is 5 times higher than among adults. The pathology is most severe in children three years of age and younger, but the likelihood of complications is characteristic of all, without exception, persons infected with the virus. In modern domestic pediatrics, influenza is one of the most pressing problems.

A sick person is the main source of infection. In the first few days, the virus is able to separate from the mucous membranes, and the concentrations are truly enormous, although it is impossible to see the microscopic form of life with the eye.

Sneezing, coughing, even simple conversation is already a way of spreading the disease. Household items, discharge - all this helps the disease to spread further. Infection is possible through towels, not thoroughly washed dishes or a baby pacifier.

This is explained by the ability of the nasopharynx to separate salivary particles, phlegm, mucous discharge. All this is thrown into the environment. Organic matter contain a virus, and soon an infected zone rich in dangerous particles forms around the person. Some of them settle fairly quickly, while others remain in the atmosphere longer. The propagation range is up to three meters.

Technical highlights

Having recovered from the virus, you can acquire immunity, usually quite persistent, but specific - it applies only to the type that was infected. You can get sick again if a person encounters a new form, an adjusted version. It is for this reason that vaccination does not show as positive an effect as we would like to see.

To classify the pathogen in medicine, there is a system for isolating an antigen that reacts with antibodies. In this case, the binding procedure takes place according to some specific scenario, which allows the disease to be ranked as one of the known types.

The surface antigens of the virus are highly variable. Some viruses have been studied by medicine in some detail, in detail, but there is also a group that is practically unknown to science. This is the C virus, which is dangerous for humans and pigs. True, there is nothing to be afraid of here: in comparison with the other two groups (A, B), the symptoms are either mild or absent. This form does not provoke epidemics, does not lead to complications, and most people over 15 years old have antibodies to this form of the virus in their bodies.

Classic form

Among all the variants of the course of the disease in practice, the typical flu is most often encountered. This is a disease that is characterized by manifestations of intoxication and disturbances in the respiratory tract. The duration of the incubation period is no more than 3 days, after which the course is violent. The child has a fever, chills, on the first day the temperature often rises to 40 degrees. The child complains of a headache, especially felt in the temples, forehead, eyes and muscle tissue, joints hurt. The person feels weak, appetite disappears, vomiting appears.

A febrile peak in babies one year old and younger is possible with convulsive manifestations. Those who are older are likely to develop meningism, delirium, delirium.

It is not difficult to notice the flu and visually: the skin turns pale, as if marbled. This is especially pronounced in young patients. A bright blush is often observed. On close examination, tachycardia can be noticed, and the manifestations are closely related to the febrile state. Blood flow problems can trigger abdominal bowel syndrome.

Hard case

Evaluating the patient's condition, the doctor identifies how severe the intoxication is, and already against this background, he makes a diagnosis, formulates a conclusion regarding the severity of the form. The most dangerous case is considered when infection with a virus negatively affects the central nervous system, provokes a hemorrhagic syndrome, noticeable by bleeding from the nose, skin petechiae (a small rash that occurs when blood vessels rupture), the presence of erythrocytes in the urine.

There is a possibility of developing an atypical form. An erased course is usually referred to it when the symptoms are mild and manifest for a short time. There is a risk of infection and a hypertoxic form, which is especially difficult. This disease is characterized by shock associated with toxicosis against the background of viral infection. DIC syndrome, pneumonia develops, internal hemorrhages are possible.

Risk group

Children half a year old and younger are most likely to get the flu. Often, the disease begins atypically, toxicosis is weak, the manifestations are minimal, but the baby loses his appetite, cannot sleep. Such patients are the first to face complications such as bacterial complication... The disease develops rapidly, there is a high probability of death.

A common childhood cold goes away rather quickly if you notice the symptoms in time and immediately begin treatment. It's another matter when a child gets the flu. This is of particular concern to parents, because it is he who can lead to serious complications and cause relapses of chronic pathologies. To understand how to deal with the flu, you need to be able to recognize it among the many similar symptoms of colds.

Ways of infection and types of influenza

Influenza is an acute infectious disease that affects the respiratory tract as a result of viruses entering it. Since the virus is constantly undergoing mutational changes, every year doctors diagnose new types of it.

There are two reasons for a virus infection:

  • Airborne droplets, which are considered the most frequent. Infection occurs as a result of contact with a sick person who sneezes and coughs or just talks while in close proximity. Moreover, the bacilli can spread to 7-10 meters from the patient in a closed room and 3 to 5 meters in the fresh air.
  • The contact path resulting from the contact of a healthy child with the things or toys of an infected baby.

The most likely cause of infection is the presence of a child in crowded places, especially during an epidemic. Indoors with no access to sunlight and air can also easily pick up an infection. In preschool or school institutions, you can get infected from latent carriers of the virus - children or service personnel, whose disease is latent.

The most characteristic factors in the spread of the disease:

  • a sharp change in weather or climate;
  • reduced immunity;
  • lack of vitamins (vitamin deficiency);
  • lack of sunlight;
  • stay in a large crowd of people.

Influenza varieties

Today, there are over 2000 varieties of the virus. Moreover, some of them are quite easily tolerated, while others can have such serious complications that there is a danger of death.

The most common are three types of influenza virus - "A", "B" and "C". They differ in the nature of the course of the disease and the degree of probability of epidemiological outbreaks.

Stages and symptoms of influenza in children

There are three stages in the development of the disease in children, each of which is characterized by certain symptoms:

  • incubation period;
  • active stage;
  • convalescence period.

The first signs of a virus in the child's body can become noticeable as early as 3 hours after infection... Although in the incubation period, they can be hidden for up to 2 - 3 days. It all depends on the child's immunity. The characteristic signs of the onset of the disease are:

  • general weakness;
  • drowsiness;
  • capriciousness.

On days 2 - 3, signs of an active stage of intoxication of the body appear:

  • headaches;
  • hyperthermia;
  • a sore throat;
  • nasal congestion;
  • change of voice;
  • lacrimation;
  • cough;
  • increased sweating;
  • body aches;
  • sleep disturbance;
  • violation of appetite;
  • bowel disorder;
  • nausea, vomiting.

The recovery period begins when the body begins to defeat the virus, and is characterized by the following manifestations:

  • increased body temperature persists;
  • joint and muscle pain gradually subsides;
  • nasal discharge takes on a thick consistency.

Infant flu should be treated at the first sign of illness. Otherwise, there is a high probability of developing complications that can delay the healing process.

Influenza treatment in children of different ages

Flu treatment is based on stopping the pathogen and relieving the symptoms of the disease. For this purpose, antiviral and antibacterial medications are prescribed. To alleviate the general condition of a sick child, it is necessary to take antipyretic, vasodilator, expectorant and analgesic drugs.

An important condition for treatment is compliance with the daily drinking regimen. For each age, the amount of fluid consumed is different, and is:

  • for children from 0 to 1 year old - at least 500 ml;
  • for children from 1 to 3 years old - 500 ml - 1 liter;
  • for children from 3 to 12 years old - at least 1 liter - 1.5 liters.

By choosing medicines, it is necessary to take into account the age and weight of the child, as well as the general well-being and the presence or absence of complications.

Doctors usually prescribe the following drugs to treat influenza in children:

  • Arbidol - from 3 to 6 years old, 50 mg 4 times a day, from 6 to 12 years old, 100 mg 4 times a day;
  • Cycloferon - from 4 to 12 years old, 3-4 tablets a day;
  • Tamiflu - with a weight of 15 to 23 kg, 45 mg per day, with a weight of more than 23 kg, 60 mg per day;
  • Amizon from 6 to 12 years old, 1 tablet 3 times a day;
  • Groprinosine from 0 to 12 years old, 50 mg / kg body weight in 3 - 4 doses;
  • Grip-Heel from 1 to 6 years old, 0.5 tablets 3 times a day, from 6 to 12 years old, 1 tablet a day.

Depending on the child's condition, the doctor decides on the prescription of antibiotics. This happens in the following cases:

  • high temperature does not decrease under the influence of antipyretics for more than 4 - 5 days;
  • lack of signs of recovery;
  • the appearance of complications (stool disturbance, heart palpitations, respiratory failure, etc.).

The duration of taking antibiotics is 5 to 7 days.

In the treatment of children's flu, folk remedies help well. All kinds of herbal infusions and decoctions have practically no contraindications, therefore they are well accepted by the child's body.

Do not forget about preventive measures. These include:

  • frequent walks in the fresh air;
  • regular airing of the room and wet cleaning;
  • saturation of the child's diet with vitamins, fruits, vegetables and cereals;
  • restricting visits to public places during the epidemic.

Untimely treatment infectious diseases in childhood can provoke the development of complications of a bacterial nature. Therefore, parents should carefully monitor the health of the child, and at the slightest suspicion of a cold, immediately consult a doctor. Only after medical diagnostics is carried out, the child is prescribed adequate treatment aimed at stopping the virus in the initial stage.

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The period from September to April, in addition to cold weather, is invariably accompanied by an increase in the incidence of viral and infectious diseases. One of the most severe among them is the flu - it takes the child out of the rut of everyday life for a long time, forces him to stay in bed and threatens with serious complications.

Influenza can be caused by one of several viruses (type A, B, C) belonging to the rotavirus family. Their danger to humans lies in antigenic polymorphism - the ability to constantly mutate and adapt to antiviral drugs. This explains the annual flu epidemics of greater or lesser severity, as well as the impossibility of creating an effective vaccine.

Infected people are carriers and distributors of rotavirus. Infection does not always imply illness - often a person does not even know that he is carrying an infection.

One of the following factors can activate the virus and provoke the development of the disease:

  1. Decreased immunity.
  2. Hypothermia (hypothermia).
  3. Frequent fatigue.
  4. Stress.

The transmission of the virus most often occurs by airborne droplets (during communication, with hugs, kisses), less often - through household contact (through dishes, food, clothes, toys, nipples).

A child of any age can get the flu, but breastfed babies are least at risk of infection. This is because a woman's milk contains immunoglobulins, which play the role of antibodies and support the immune system.

Symptoms

The first signs of the disease appear quickly and violently - at the initial stage, the flu symptoms in children do not differ at all from the symptoms of a common cold. Let's consider them in more detail below.

  • Lethargy

More recently, an active and cheerful child becomes irritable and apathetic. Younger children are naughty and ask for hands, older children lose the need for outdoor games and communication. Children of all ages have increased sleepiness.

  • Heat

A characteristic picture is a sharp increase in body temperature to a febrile (38-39 ° C) level and above. Fever may be preceded by chills - a vascular signal from the body, warning of an imminent deterioration of the condition.

  • Aches in muscles, joints, lower back

This symptom speaks of the intoxication of the body by the waste products secreted by viruses. Pain in the limbs is also triggered by dehydration - a constant companion high temperature.

  • Lack of appetite

Most often, the flu begins with a child's refusal to eat. This is not a whim, but an immune response of the body, all the resources of which are rushed to fight the disease, so there is no strength left to assimilate food.

  • Sore eyes

Reddened whites, a cloudy look, pain in the eyes are also characteristic signs of the flu. The sensitivity of the eyes is due to the large number of nerve endings and receptors that are sensitive to inflammatory changes in the body, as well as their proximity to the respiratory organs.

On the second or third day, the child's poor health can be aggravated by a tearful barking cough, otitis media (ear inflammation), enlarged lymph nodes, conjunctivitis (inflammation of the mucous membrane of the eyes), reddening of the tonsils, and sometimes nausea and vomiting. On examination, the doctor diagnoses a red throat (sometimes it is covered with a white coating), wheezing in the chest. The appearance of accompanying symptoms is not necessary - quite often the course of influenza is limited to the classic viral picture.

The usual duration of the disease is 7-14 days. Depending on how many children are sick with influenza in different preschool and school institutions, a quarantine calendar is drawn up to avoid the spread of infection and create an epidemic danger.

Treatment

As with other diseases, treatment of influenza in children involves the destruction of the causative agent of the disease and the removal of symptoms. To solve the first problem, antiviral and antibacterial drugs are used, and to alleviate the patient's condition, antipyretic drugs, vasodilators, pain relievers, expectorant drugs, antispasmodics, pills and drops for a cold, pain in the ears, throat, etc. are used.

How to treat flu in children at home? In the treatment of any viral infection, one of the most important roles is played by adherence to the drinking regime. Drinking should be as plentiful as possible, as a drink, both plain and mineral water, black, green, herbal tea, juice are equally well suited.

The volume of fluid consumed should be:

  • in children under one year of age, at least 500 ml;
  • in children 1-3 years old - 500 ml - 1 l;
  • for children 3 years and older - at least 1-1.5 liters per day.

If a child is breastfed, it is not necessary to supplement him - the entire volume of the liquid he needs is contained in the mother's milk he consumes.

The second important point in the treatment of a viral infection is bed rest. It is usually not difficult to adhere to it, since children weakened by the disease already prefer to be more in a horizontal position. Reducing physical activity is necessary to exclude the likelihood of severe consequences from the nervous system, heart, blood vessels.

You can not force the child to eat, especially protein foods. During the period of illness, the production of gastric juice decreases, the digestive process slows down, the appetite decreases naturally. Do not worry if the refusal of food is delayed for several days - he takes all the nutrients he needs from the body's reserves. If age permits, then during illness it is better to offer the patient fruits and berries containing vitamin C - citrus fruits, apples, kiwi, grapes, black currants.

As for drug therapy, then, given the complex symptoms and age of young patients, the treatment of influenza is based both on drugs and proven over centuries folk remediesoh.

Drug treatment

The foundation drug treatment flu - taking antiviral drugs. These are substances that contribute to the body's production of its own interferons - protein compounds that block malicious virus and do not allow him to multiply.

Before treating influenza in children, you should consult a pediatrician - the selection and prescription of medication is carried out by him after examining the patient.

When choosing a medicine, the following factors matter:

  • the age and weight of the patient;
  • general picture of the disease (symptoms, health, probable prognosis);
  • presence or absence of complications.

The most popular flu drugs for children are Arbidol, Cycloferon, Tamiflu, Amizon, Groprinosin, Gripp-Heel.

Antiviral drugs for influenza

The effect of antiviral drugs from the beginning of their appearance on the pharmaceutical market to this day provokes a lot of controversy among pediatricians due to the lack of objective research. There is an opinion that their immunomodulatory effect is very short-lived, and most doctors are inclined to believe that the treatment of influenza in children with their help is ineffective. They are often prescribed for placebo effects.

When to give an antibiotic?

The most important thing that parents should know is that the decision on the appointment of antibacterial drugs can only be made by the attending physician. Self-medication with antibiotics is categorically unacceptable, since these drugs have many contraindications and side effects, and often require complex therapy simultaneously with antihistamines and probiotics.

Antibiotic indications:

  • temperature above 38.5 ° C, difficult to confuse with antipyretic drugs and does not subside within 4-5 days;
  • poor condition of the patient without a tendency to improve during the same period;
  • the first signs of complications appear: indigestion, breathing disorders, heartbeat failures, etc.

An important point in antibiotic therapy is the exact fulfillment of doctor's prescriptions. First of all, this concerns the duration of treatment, which is usually 5-7 days. Even if the next day after the first intake of the drug, there is a sharp improvement in the child's condition, it is impossible to shorten the duration of the antibiotic intake.

The decision of what to take for children with influenza, how much and for how long, should be entrusted to the treating pediatrician.

Folk remedies

Natural remedies for influenza are a good help in treating a viral infection. Their action is aimed at gently lowering the temperature, activating immune processes, saturating the body with vitamin C.

For this purpose, the following products are widely used:

  • bee Honey - effective remedy from heat and a strong natural immunomodulator;
  • raspberries, viburnum, citruses, black and red currants, lingonberries, strawberries - natural storehouses of vitamin C;
  • onions, garlic, ginger - inhibitors of the virus, stopping its action and preventing reproduction;
  • cow, goat milk - have an expectorant, antispasmodic effect.

Time-tested cure for flu and colds - herbs and other plants (linden, oregano, coltsfoot, birch buds, chamomile, black elderberry, anise, sage, elderberry, string, juniper).

Natural Flu Recipes

Many children refuse to eat onions and garlic, despite all the persuasions of their parents, especially when they are sick. In this case, the vegetables should be peeled, cut and placed on the bedside table near the patient's bed - their pairs also have a bactericidal effect.

Parents of children with allergies should be careful when preparing and taking folk remedies for influenza, since for all their objective benefits, natural components have a higher degree of allergenicity than synthesized ones. Allergies to herbs, honey, berries and fruits usually show up as a red rash on the face, hands and feet.

What shouldn't be done when treating influenza in children?

There are several common mistakes that parents of the patient often make. Eliminating them will help speed up recovery and reduce the likelihood of complications.

  • Do not ventilate the room

One of the most important fears that torment the patient's parents is a draft, which can actually aggravate the child's condition. But with the right approach, fresh air contributes to a speedy recovery - it accelerates the death of viruses, activates the body's defenses. The room in which the baby is located should be ventilated every 3-4 hours and always before going to bed, while the patient is being ventilated, it should be removed (taken out) from the room.

  • Wrap the child

The child's heat exchange is physiologically imperfect - it is more difficult for his body to adapt to the ambient temperature. Therefore, extra layers of clothing and an extra warm blanket increase body temperature and create a harmful greenhouse effect. At the same time, one should listen to the signals of the body - if the patient has chills, cold hands and feet, he complains of cold, he needs to be covered with another blanket.

  • Avoid hygiene procedures

Human skin is an organ that has excretory and metabolic functions. Through the sweat glands, together with waste products during illness, toxins released by the virus are released. If they are not washed off, sweat dries up on the surface of the skin, forms a dense invisible film on it, prevents further natural release of toxins, and slows down excretory processes. It is necessary to wash the child every evening before going to bed, while bathing should not be long, the water temperature should cause discomfort. Hypothermia should be avoided after the procedure.

  • Knock down the temperature below 38.5 ° С

It is at this temperature that its own interferon begins to be produced and the fight against infection begins. If you start giving a child antipyretic syrup, tablets or suppositories before the thermometer reaches the specified level, his body will not be able to develop even partial immunity to the disease, and the likelihood of infection in subsequent flu epidemics will significantly increase. The duration and intensity of taking antipyretics depends on how long the temperature lasts with the flu.

  • Do alcohol and vinegar wraps

This "grandmother's" method has long been constructively criticized by doctors. Both alcohol and vinegar are substances that give additional intoxication of the child's body. If the temperature rises above 39 ° C, an emergency should be called.

  • Soar feet

The effectiveness of this method of treatment is also questionable, but the likelihood of getting a burn is very high.

A popular stereotype is also forcibly keeping a child in bed. In this matter, it is better to trust the patient's body - if he has weakness or lethargy, then the activity will be reduced in a natural way, but if his state of health allows moderate mobility, it is not worth insisting on adherence to bed rest.

Possible complications and consequences

Why is flu in children dangerous? This question rightly worries parents no less than effective treatment, since the disease can cause serious complications.

Most often, the flu is complicated by otitis media, intestinal infection. More rare complications after influenza are encephalitis, myositis (muscle inflammation), various cardiovascular diseases (myocarditis, pericarditis, heart failure). To avoid all this, it is necessary to consult a doctor in a timely manner, to carry out all his appointments.

For the prevention and treatment of complications with influenza, antibiotics are prescribed (Ceftriaxone, Amoxicillin), as well as drugs such as Otipax, Anauran, Sofradex (for otitis media), Nifuroxazid, Polysorb, Enterosgel (for intestinal infections), Dibazol (for complications from the nervous system ).

Prevention

Influenza virus in children is quite resistant to medication preventive measures, but you can reduce the likelihood of infection if you adhere to simple rules of a healthy lifestyle:

  1. Temper the child: dress him according to the weather, do not wrap him up, prevent hypothermia, ensure sufficient exposure to fresh air.
  2. Do not overuse medications: at the first sign of a runny nose and the common cold, do not rush to give drugs for the treatment of influenza, try to do with safe folk recipes.
  3. Saturate the diet with sources of vitamins and microelements: vegetables, fruits, dried fruits, cereals.
  4. During epidemics, avoid being in crowded places, public transport.

The same applies to preventive measures, but its effectiveness is in question due to the constant mutation of the virus.

Influenza belongs to the group of acute respiratory diseases (ARI) and is its most formidable representative. People of any age are susceptible to this infection, but of course it is children who are more sensitive. The immune system in babies is imperfect. It is for this reason that the flu in children can be difficult and with the development of all kinds of complications.

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Causes of the disease

Influenza is an acute infectious respiratory diseasecaused by a virus from the orthomyxovirus family. Distinguish between these types of flu:

  • Type A;
  • Type B;
  • Type C.

The most dangerous in epidemic terms is the first type of influenza virus. On its surface are two antigen proteins - hemagglutinin (H) and neuraminidase (N). Hemagglutinin carries out the attachment of the virus to the target cells, and neuraminidase destroys the cell membrane, so that the virus enters the body without obstacles. It is believed that the intoxication of the body is determined by the activity of hemagglutinin, but the suppression of the immune system occurs under the action of neuraminidase. Each of these antigens has its own subtypes. Thus, 12 hemagglutinin subtypes are distinguished, designated as H1, H2, H3, etc., as well as 9 subtypes of neuraminidase antigen - N1, N2, N3, etc. The combination of these or those types of antigens determines the type of influenza. So, H1N1 is called swine flu, and H5N1 bird flu. By and large, the clinical picture of influenza caused by different kinds virus is the same. Swine flu in children is a common influenza infection. You can read about what types of influenza will be common in the northern hemisphere in 2015-2016 in.

Flu symptoms

The transmission mechanism is airborne. A sick person, sneezing and coughing, secretes a virus along with saliva and phlegm. So, a healthy person who is two or three meters away can get the flu. The virus attaches to the epithelium of the nasal mucosa, larynx. From there it enters the bloodstream and only then is carried throughout the body. The incubation period is short, from a few hours to three days. But on average, one or two days. According to the severity of the course of the flu,:

  1. Easy flow;
  2. Medium severity;
  3. Heavy;
  4. Hypertoxic.

Moderate flu symptoms

Determining by the clinical picture what a child is sick with, flu or other acute respiratory viral infections, in some cases, it is not easy at all. Indeed, diseases from the ARI group are characterized by similar symptoms. But for flu (swine or any other), a characteristic symptom is the sudden onset of the disease. Just a few hours ago, the child was active, mobile, and now he has become lethargic, looks unhealthy. Flu is characterized by a sudden rise in temperature up to 38-40 degrees, which remains at such a high level for two to three days. The child complains about oppressive pain in the eyes, headache, body aches. A sick baby becomes restless, whiny.
On the second day, the child begins to complain of sore throat, dry cough. There may be nasal congestion due to mucosal edema, then scanty mucous membranes, transparent selection from the nose. But a profuse runny nose for influenza is uncharacteristic, this symptom may prompt the doctor to think about the presence of another infection - rhinovirus. There are deviations in the work of the cardiovascular system: fluctuations in blood pressure, as well as an increase in the heart rate. and also, these are typical symptoms of swine flu in a child. The flu virus provokes fragility of blood vessels, so the baby may experience punctate hemorrhages on the body, as well. Against the background of a decrease in temperature, the child's condition is gradually improving. But within 4-7 days, a wet cough may still be observed. Within a month after the illness, the child may experience a decrease in activity, rapid fatigue. At this time, you should limit active physical activity.

Symptoms in severe cases

In the clinical picture, symptoms of intoxication are expressed. Due to the high temperature, the baby may experience delirium, hallucinations, hemorrhagic phenomena (bleeding from the nose, gums, subcutaneous hemorrhages). The temperature quickly reaches 39-40 degrees and is kept at a high level for a long time. Young children develop neurotoxicosis, which manifests itself:

  • Headache;
  • Nausea, vomiting;
  • Meningism symptoms;
  • Convulsions.

With a severe course of infection, various complications often join, for example, hemorrhagic. The most dangerous for children is the hypertoxic form of the disease, which is characterized by an extremely severe course and the rapid development of such a formidable condition as infectious toxic shock. Often, with this form of the disease, catarrhal symptoms of influenza in a child do not even have time to form (nasal congestion, cough). The hypertoxic form of influenza can lead to death due to pulmonary edema or acute cardiovascular failure. Death can occur within only a few hours after the first symptoms appear.

Complications of the disease

Complications of influenza can be divided into two groups:

  • Primary - caused by the influenza virus;
  • Secondary - caused by a secondary infection.

The most formidable complication from this group is considered to be hemorrhagic pulmonary edema, which occurs in the first days of the disease and can lead to death. Against the background of severe toxicosis, shortness of breath appears, sputum with blood, the skin is cyanotic, and the heart rate increases. Death develops as a result of severe respiratory failure. Children may also have false croup caused by swelling of the vocal cords and spasm of the muscles in the larynx. This condition is characterized by the onset of an attack of suffocation, more often at night. The attack is accompanied by an increase in heart rate, anxiety of the child. Progressive swelling of the larynx leads to the fact that air does not enter the lungs and the baby begins to choke. The nervous system is especially sensitive to the action of the influenza virus. The development of such complications is possible:

  • Arachnoiditis;
  • Swelling and wedging of the brain into the foramen magnum;
  • Brain hemorrhages with the development of paralysis;
  • Guillain-Barré syndrome;
  • Neuralgia, polyneuritis;
  • Reye's syndrome.

note : Reye's syndrome develops during treatment for influenza. This medication should be avoided. The syndrome is characterized by severe brain and liver damage. In the delayed perspective (after 1-2 months), the development of such complications as. This disease is manifested by a decrease in urine output, edema, and increased blood pressure. It is also possible to damage the heart with the development of myocarditis or endocarditis.

Secondary complications

In most cases, the flu ends complete recovery child. The danger is not to be expected from the flu itself, but rather from complications. Secondary complications arise when a secondary infection (usually bacterial) joins the flu, or foci of chronic infection are activated. The most common and dangerous complication the flu is bacterial. The presence of the disease will be indicated by an increase in body temperature over 38 degrees after the fifth day of illness, severe weakness, moist cough with purulent sputum. The child, when coughing with his hands, presses on the chest, because he experiences pain in this part of the body. Another category of secondary complications in influenza is diseases of the ENT organs. Most often, diseases such as:

Influenza diagnosis

A child who gets an appointment with a pediatrician will definitely be shown. What changes will be in the analysis?


But this research method is not specific. The changes described above indicate the presence of a viral infection, but do not provide information about the pathogen. Specific diagnostics allows the identification of the influenza virus. Nasal swabs are taken from the patient, and then the selected material is applied to a glass slide. The resulting preparation is treated with a fluorescent dye and then examined under a fluorescent microscope. This diagnostic method is called the method of fluorescent antibodies (MFA). Also used in the diagnosis of influenza, which allows you to determine in swabs from the nose of the RNA of the virus. Thanks to such modern diagnostic methods, it is possible to confirm or deny the diagnosis of influenza on the same day when the material was selected for research.

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Uncomplicated flu does not require proactive measures. It is enough to provide the child with bed rest. Treatment of influenza in children at home should be carried out in compliance with sanitary recommendations. The child's room must be ventilated several times a day, wet cleaning must be carried out in it. Children lose their appetite during illness. Do not force your child to eat. You need to give preference to light meals, for example, low-fat chicken soup, eggs, dairy products. The most important rule is drinking plenty of fluids. It can be fruit drinks, natural juices, compotes. Such drinks not only contribute to the elimination of the virus, but also saturate the child's body with vitamins and microelements. From symptomatic treatment, antipyretic drugs, nasal sprays, cough drops, and less often expectorants are used. Separately, it is worth talking about the use of antipyretic drugs. Of the whole variety of NSAIDs, children are advised to take only two drugs: ibuprofen and paracetamol. It is known that an increase in temperature is a protective reaction of the body. Thus, the body fights infection and it is not worth bringing down the 38-degree temperature. But there are certain situations when it is not only possible, but also necessary to lower the temperature. Antipyretic drugs should be prescribed when:

  1. Body temperature over 39 degrees;
  2. Temperature over 38 degrees, if the child has a history of seizures;
  3. Temperatures over 38.5 degrees in the presence of chronic diseases;
  4. Temperatures over 38 degrees in infants.

Influenza is the only infection from the group of acute respiratory infections for which there is etiotropic treatment. The drugs that are effective against influenza are divided into two groups:

  1. M2 receptor inhibitors -;
  2. Neuraminidase inhibitors - tamiflu, zanamivir.

These drugs are prescribed in a hospital under medical supervision. This is a very important condition, because despite their effectiveness, they also have serious side effects... The drugs should be taken on the first day of the illness. Note: Great care should be taken with the methods traditional medicine... Some of them will be simply ineffective, while others will be completely life threatening. So, do not rub the child with alcohol, wrap him in warm blankets. These manipulations can lead to overheating of the child, disruption of thermoregulatory mechanisms. Unfortunately, in their clinical practice, doctors are faced with similar situations when a child dies due to such seemingly harmless manipulations.

Prevention

Preventive measures can be divided into specific and non-specific. Non-specific prevention of influenza in children includes good nutrition and sleep, walking outside, moderate physical activity, and avoiding crowded places.
Specific prevention is

Influenza in children (Grippus) is an acute viral disease characterized by extremely high infectiousness, symptoms of specific intoxication and inflammation respiratory tract.

The name of the disease comes from the French word gripper. For a long time, the disease was called influenza (from the Latin word for "invade"). For the first time the disease was described by Hippocrates, the main symptoms: fever, weakness, persistent cough, inflammation of the throat and eyes.

Influenza viruses are unstable to the effects of chemical and physical factors, they are destroyed at room temperature within a few hours, while low temperatures (from -25 ° C to -70 ° C) persist for several years; quickly die when heated, dried, as well as when exposed to low concentrations of chlorine, ozone, ultraviolet radiation.

Features of the spread of influenza in children

The maximum infectivity is observed in the early days of the disease, when the virus is released into the external environment when coughing and sneezing with droplets of mucus. Virus isolation in a complicated course ends by 5-6 days from the onset of the disease. At the same time, with pneumonia, which complicates the course of influenza, the virus appears in the body up to 2-3 weeks from the onset of the disease. Seasonal influenza affects all groups of people, has a certain seasonality, the maximum incidence occurs in winter. After the transferred disease, a persistent type and strain-specific immunity is formed, repeated diseases are caused by a new serovariant of the influenza virus.

Influenza development in children

Of leading importance is the damaging mucous membranes and the intoxication effect of the influenza virus. The causative agent penetrates into the epithelial cells of the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract, where it multiplies and causes their damage to dystrophy and necrosis; the auto-antigens formed thereby trigger local autoimmune cytotoxic reactions aimed at limiting lesions and eliminating altered cells and viral antigens.

Morphologically, it is not manifested by local inflammation, but clinically - by catarrh of the upper respiratory tract. From the place of primary localization, the influenza virus and the decay products of the surface epithelium enter the bloodstream, causing an intoxicating effect. From this time on and throughout the course of the disease, the influenza virus in children can be detected in the blood, in free circulation (viremia).

The toxic effect of the virus is directed mainly at the microvasculature, which leads to a slowdown in blood flow, increased vascular permeability and tissue edema. As a result of microcirculation disorders, hemodynamic disorders develop in various organs and systems (in the central nervous system - to encephalopathy, in the lungs - from minor hemorrhages to segmental widespread hemorrhagic edema), which is the leading link in the pathogenesis of severe forms of influenza in children. In severe cases, microcirculatory hemodynamic disturbances lead to edema and swelling of the brain, up to the wedging of the cerebellar tonsils into the foramen magnum and often fatal.

Manifestation of influenza in children

The intoxication effect of the influenza virus suppresses the cellular and humoral functions of the immune system, which, along with the elimination of the protective function of the surface epithelium and the depression of local factors of immune defense, promotes the activation of a bacterial infection that occurs in the respiratory tract; in patients with influenza, a strong microbial focus is often formed in the bronchopulmonary system, is directly involved in the occurrence of severe lesions of the larynx, trachea, bronchi, lungs, as well as many other complications - tonsillitis, otitis media, pyelonephritis, sinusitis. In the pathogenesis of influenza, there are processes of allergization by autoimmune antigens, decay products of epithelial cells, bacterial agents; in the presence of preliminary sensitization, influenza encephalitis, polyradiculoneuritis, polyarthritis and many others are possible.

Sometimes, especially in children early age, in the lungs, foci of serous inflammation with exudate of a predominantly macrophage nature, specific to the influenza virus, appear. In the case of stratification of bacterial flora, viral-bacterial pneumonia may occur.

In the acute period of influenza, two phases of immune reactions develop: nonspecific (the first 3-4 days) with the formation of interferon, tissue inhibitors, ribonuclease, an inflammatory reaction, and specific (up to 4-5 days), when anti-influenza antibodies appear. The 4th day is vulnerable, when the nonspecific defense of the body has already been depleted, and specific antibodies have just begun to form, and their concentration is insufficient to overcome the virus.

Common flu symptoms in children

Influenza symptoms in children depend on the clinical form of the disease. Distinguish between typical and atypical forms of the disease. The latter includes a temperatureless, catarrhal-free, fulminant course of flu. Catarrhal form is quite common - when the child remains practically healthy, but an increase in the titer of antibodies to the influenza virus is observed.

A typical clinical picture is characterized by a combination of two leading syndromes - general intoxication and catarrhal phenomena of the upper respiratory tract. Distinguish between mild, moderate, severe, or toxic and hypertoxic forms of influenza. The severity is determined by the degree of manifestation of general intoxication, a temperature reaction, which in most cases corresponds to the severity of the disease.

A mild course of influenza is diagnosed with a slight violation of the general condition, an increase in body temperature to 38 ° C, and little expressed symptoms of intoxication. The mild form also includes the erased forms of influenza, the course of which passes at normal body temperature and the absence of other symptoms of intoxication, along with mild catarrhal symptoms (stuffy nose, small mucous discharge from the nose, coughing).

With a moderate form, there are all the signs of influenza intoxication: headache, dizziness, muscle and joint pain, croup syndrome, abdominal syndrome are possible. The incubation period ranges from several hours to 1-2 days, sometimes (in 10% of cases) there is a period of precursors in the form of subfebrile condition, muscle pain. In most cases, the disease begins suddenly: chills appear, body temperature rises to 38-39 ° C; chills are quickly replaced by a feeling of heat, general weakness occurs, patients are irritable, complain of insomnia, tinnitus, headache, mainly localized in the forehead and temples, in the eyeballs, muscles, photophobia.

How to treat severe influenza in children

Read important information before treating severe influenza in children yourself. Perhaps after that you will understand the need for a timely visit to a doctor. In severe influenza in children, diffuse respiratory tract damage (rhinitis, tracheitis, laryngitis) is observed. The mucous membrane of the nasopharynx, soft and hard palate is reddened. edematous; with influenza, which caused a type B virus, a granular enanthema occurs - a symptom of Morozkin. For flu, the characteristic signs of tracheitis. There are no changes on the part of the digestive system. If no complications arise during the flu, then after 2-3 days the patient begins to recover: the body temperature drops critically, the cough becomes softer, the headache disappears, and myalgias, malaise and weakness can persist for up to several days, the catarrhal syndrome disappears later.

A hallmark of a severe form is severe intoxication: a sharp violation of the general condition with impaired consciousness, nausea, vomiting, short-term convulsions, an increase in body temperature to 40-40.5 ° C, which lasts 3-5 days. Attention is drawn to facial hyperemia, conjunctivitis, moderate cyanosis of the lips, in the eye area the skin is hot to the touch, the cough is first dry, then wet.

In severe forms of the disease, the process progresses rapidly with the development of various manifestations of infectious toxicosis: meningeal, encephalitic - or a combination of reactions (hyperthermia, neurological symptoms -, dizziness, fainting, delirium, vasomotor disorders with convulsions, loss of consciousness, meningeal symptoms) and hemorrhagic syndrome (rash , more often on the skin of the face, neck, chest and upper extremities, hemorrhages on the mucous membrane of the mouth, palate, back of the pharynx, conjunctiva; nosebleeds, microhematuria, blood impurities in the feces and much more). Disturbances of cardiovascular activity are characteristic. There is a lesion of the heart muscle and microcirculatory disorders with the development of cardiovascular insufficiency of the cardiac type, vasospasm or collapse.

The course of hypertoxic influenza is such as hemorrhagic pulmonary edema and severe neuroinfection, which are characterized by meningoencephalitic, hemorrhagic and hyperthermic syndromes, fulminant course and death.

Influenza in newborns under one year old

Influenza in newborns and children under one year old has its own characteristics. The disease often begins gradually, with a slight increase in body temperature, the course of the disease is quite acute. Symptoms of specific influenza intoxication are absent or dim: pallor of the skin, the child refuses to breast, repeated vomiting is often observed, weight loss, catarrhal phenomena (cough, nasal congestion) are poorly expressed. rare, uncharacteristic segmental lung damage, Despite the mild initial clinical manifestations of influenza, the course of the disease at this age is severe due to the frequent addition of a bacterial infection and the occurrence of purulent complications (pneumonia, etc.). The mortality rate is three times higher than in older children.

The course of influenza in children aged 1 to 3 years is especially severe, with intoxication, damage to the central nervous system, the development of meningoencephalitic syndrome. Catarrhal phenomena are poorly expressed. Croup syndrome, focal or segmental pneumonia, purulent otitis media, sinusitis are often observed.

Complications and diagnosis of influenza

Complications of influenza occur at different times from the onset of the disease, more often - especially in young children - acute laryngotracheobronchitis with airway spasms, focal or segmental pneumonia as a result of bacterial flora stratification. Neurological complications can include meningitis, meningoencephalitis and encephalitis, less often neuralgia, neuritis, polyradiculo-neuritis. In the acute period of the disease, myocarditis may occur at the height of toxicosis.

Diagnosis is quite simple during epidemic outbreaks in the presence of typical manifestations of the disease: acute onset, fever, symptoms of intoxication from the first day, catarrhal manifestations from 3-4 days of illness, etc.; it is much more difficult to make a diagnosis in the post-epidemic period: then, in addition to typical clinical signs, laboratory diagnostic methods are used.

Differential diagnosis is carried out with other acute viral infections (parainfluenza, adenovirus, respiratory infections) and some infectious diseases (typhoid and typhus, meningococcal infection, psittacosis, infiltrative tuberculosis and bronchoadenitis and others).

Prevention of influenza in children

Prevention of influenza in children includes early detection and isolation of the patient at home, isolation ward, or hospital. Caregivers should use 4-6 layers of gauze masks. A decrease in the incidence rate can be achieved by conducting seasonal courses of stimulation of nonspecific and immunological reactivity of the body. Prescribe ascorbic acid, laser irradiation of the nasal passages and tonsils (5-7 sessions), interferon inducers (mefenamic acid and other inducers). For emergency prevention of influenza, use the same antiviral drugsas for therapeutic therapy. Remantadine is given to contact children after 7 years of age in the foci of influenza A, 0.05 g per day for 5 days. Preventive use of this drug is indicated for persons with a high risk of infection (employees of the clinic, transport) during the period of intensive development of the epidemic (up to 15 days), leukocyte interferon, laferon and other interferons are injected into the nasal passages, 5 drops 2-3 times a day. Anti-influenza immunoglobulin, effective doses, instantly, weakened children under 3 years of age, pregnant women in the 1-2 trimester of pregnancy.

In addition, it is recommended to lubricate the nasal passages with 0.25% oxolinic ointment. Seasonal nonspecific prophylaxis is also carried out with an extract of Eleutherococcus, 30-40 drops once a day for 25-30 days, prodigiosan 0.25 ml in each nasal passage twice with an interval of 5 minutes (a course of three injections with an interval of 5-7 days) , other adaptogens, multivitamins, hardening is recommended.

For specific prophylaxis, live and inactivated (having an advantage) vaccines from A and B virus strains are used.