How to Determine if You Have Contracted Influenza A

Dec 20, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Ren Yi

Introduction

The symptoms of influenza A are usually typical, with body temperature rapidly rising to 39~40℃, accompanied by chills and rigors. Headache, general muscle and joint pain, extreme fatigue, and loss of appetite may also occur. The appearance of these symptoms may suggest infection with the influenza A virus; however, it should be noted that symptom presentation can vary among individuals.

　　Influenza A refers to the influenza A virus. To determine whether one has contracted the influenza A virus, methods include observing personal symptoms, influenza A virus antigen testing, influenza A virus nucleic acid testing, routine blood tests, and assessment of epidemiological history. It is recommended to visit a hospital to identify the cause and follow medical advice for treatment. The analysis is as follows:

　　1. Observe Personal Symptoms

　　Symptoms of influenza A are typically distinct, with body temperature rapidly rising to 39-40℃, accompanied by chills and rigors. Headaches,全身 muscle and joint pain, extreme fatigue, loss of appetite, and other systemic symptoms may also appear. The presence of these symptoms may suggest infection with the influenza A virus; however, symptoms may vary among individuals.

　　2. Influenza A Virus Antigen Testing

　　Antigen testing is a rapid and straightforward diagnostic method. Influenza A virus antigen test kits can be purchased from authorized pharmacies, and nasal or throat swabs can be self-collected for testing. If the test result shows two lines, it typically indicates the presence of influenza A virus antigens, suggesting a high likelihood of infection.

　　3. Influenza A Virus Nucleic Acid Testing

　　Patients can visit a hospital where professional medical staff will collect respiratory specimens, such as nasopharyngeal swabs, throat swabs, or sputum, which are then sent to the laboratory for nucleic acid testing. A positive test result confirms infection with the influenza A virus.

　　4. Routine Blood Test

　　A routine blood test also serves as an auxiliary method for diagnosing influenza A. Following infection with the influenza A virus, certain blood parameters may change, such as a decrease in white blood cell count. However, results from routine blood tests are not specific and therefore cannot be used alone as the basis for diagnosing influenza A virus infection.

　　5. Epidemiological History

　　Understanding epidemiological history is also important in determining whether one has contracted the influenza A virus. If there has been recent contact with someone infected with the influenza A virus or time spent in an enclosed space with an infected individual, the risk of contracting the virus increases.

　　During recovery, it is important to replenish the body with proper nutrition. Consuming nutrient-rich foods such as eggs and pork ribs appropriately can aid in recovery.

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Is dizziness after influenza A a sign of recovery?

Under normal circumstances, "Jia Liu" refers to Influenza A H1N1. Whether dizziness following Influenza A H1N1 indicates recovery depends on the specific circumstances. If dizziness is the only symptom present without other accompanying symptoms, it usually suggests the condition is improving. However, if dizziness is accompanied by other systemic symptoms such as headache, tinnitus, or fatigue, it may not indicate improvement. If any discomfort persists, prompt medical attention is recommended.

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What does a high level of amyloid A protein indicate?

Infection is a common cause of elevated marker levels. During bacterial infections such as pneumonia and pyelonephritis, serum amyloid A protein rapidly increases within hours, and the extent of elevation often correlates with the severity of the infection. Viral infections, such as influenza and coronavirus infection, can also lead to increased levels, although the rise is typically less pronounced than in bacterial infections, making it a useful adjunct for differentiating types of infection.