Fighting the Flu

Maryland has been relatively lucky so far this flu season, with few reported cases, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). But our neighboring state, Pennsylvania, currently has moderate flu activity and others, including Alabama, Missouri and Texas, are already seeing high levels of infection.

However, we have diagnosed influenza in a couple of patients at Doctors Express of Timonium, which means more are on the way. So it’s a good time to talk about treatment for the flu and the importance of early treatment.

Since the flu is not a bacterial infection, antibiotics do not work against it. However, antiviral drugs, such as oseltamivir phosphate (Tamiflu), which are approved to treat Type A and Type B influenza, can dramatically reduce the length and severity of symptoms. (The flu cases we’ve seen in Timonium have been Type A.)

Tamiflu is only effective, though, if it is administered within the first 48 hours of the sickness. That’s why it is critical to be seen by a doctor at the first sign of flu symptoms, such as fever, exhaustion, body aches, chills and cough.

And it’s particularly important for folks who are at high risk of suffering serious complications from the flu, such as pneumonia, because the medicine can stop the virus from dangerously escalating. Those in the high risk category are people over 65 and younger than 5, and women who are pregnant or just gave birth. Also at risk are those with serious underlying medical conditions, including asthma; COPD; heart disease; liver, kidney, blood, endocrine and metabolic disorders; morbid obesity; cancer; HIV and AIDS.

Antivirals are NOT a replacement for the flu shot. They are a second line of defense. But an important one, especially for those with a high risk of complications, who—if treated early enough— might trade a dangerous condition requiring a hospital stay for a mild illness.

If you think you have the flu, visit us at Doctors Express of Timonium. We’ll diagnose and treat you fast, minimizing your symptoms’ length and severity.

For more information on flu activity across the country, go to the CDC’s interactive flu surveillance activity map at www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/fluviewinteractive.htm.

Be well!