What does influenza testing mean?
Sep 26, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Guo Xiheng
Introduction
Influenza testing detects type A and type B antigens, which actually refers to antigen testing for two types of influenza viruses: influenza A and influenza B. Influenza is an acute respiratory illness caused by infection with the influenza virus. The influenza viruses that can infect humans are broadly classified into three types: A, B, and C. Types A and B cause similar symptoms, making them difficult to distinguish.
Influenza testing detects antigen A and antigen B, which actually refers to testing for antigens of two types of influenza viruses: influenza A (commonly known as "H1N1" or "swine flu") and influenza B. Influenza is an acute respiratory disease caused by infection with the influenza virus. The influenza viruses that can infect humans are generally classified into three types: A, B, and C. Types A and B cause similar symptoms and are difficult to distinguish clinically, so tests often screen for both types simultaneously.
Influenza is a common respiratory illness. Depending on the causative pathogen, the most common types are influenza A virus and influenza B virus. The virus primarily spreads through airborne droplets, direct person-to-person contact, or contact with contaminated objects. Common clinical manifestations of influenza include chills and high fever, with body temperature reaching 39–40°C, often accompanied by headache, muscle and joint pain, extreme fatigue, loss of appetite, and other systemic symptoms. Patients may also experience sore throat, dry cough, nasal congestion, runny nose, and substernal discomfort.
Diagnosis can be confirmed via nucleic acid testing. Pathogen detection can be performed using throat swabs or sputum samples, and genetic sequencing may also be used. After confirmation, antiviral therapy combined with symptomatic treatment is required.
1. Antiviral treatment
Antiviral medications such as oseltamivir, peramivir, and zanamivir should be administered within 48 hours of symptom onset.
2. Symptomatic treatment
If symptoms such as fever occur, antipyretic and analgesic drugs like ibuprofen should be used. For symptoms such as cough and phlegm, expectorant and antitussive medications like Chuanbei Pipa paste may be prescribed.
3. Antibiotics
Antibiotics should be promptly administered if secondary bacterial infections develop. Commonly used antibiotics include penicillins, cephalosporins, macrolides, or quinolones.
Patients showing signs of influenza virus infection are advised to seek medical attention promptly for appropriate treatment to avoid delays in care.
