How to Determine if You Have Contracted Influenza A

　　Influenza A usually refers to influenza caused by infection with the influenza A virus, which is an acute respiratory infectious disease. Under normal circumstances, influenza A can be diagnosed through symptom observation, temperature monitoring, epidemiological history, nucleic acid testing, and serological testing. It is recommended to seek timely medical treatment and follow the guidance of a physician. Detailed analysis is as follows:

　　1. Symptom observation: Patients with influenza A typically exhibit various typical symptoms, such as coughing, usually dry cough or accompanied by small amounts of white phlegm, as well as sore throat, runny nose, and nasal congestion. Some patients may also experience gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea.

　　2. Temperature changes: Patients with influenza A often develop high fever, with body temperature persistently above the normal range. If a high temperature is detected along with the above symptoms, influenza A should be highly suspected.

　　3. Epidemiological history: Determine whether the patient had contact with individuals infected with influenza A or visited areas experiencing influenza A outbreaks prior to the onset of illness. If there is a clear history of exposure to influenza A patients and the patient presents related symptoms, the likelihood of influenza A infection increases.

　　4. Nucleic acid testing: This involves collecting nasal or throat swabs to detect the presence of influenza A virus nucleic acid. This method has high specificity and sensitivity, enabling accurate detection of influenza A virus infection and identification of the specific viral type.

　　5. Serological testing: This primarily involves detecting influenza A virus-specific antibodies in the blood. Blood samples are usually collected during the early stage of illness and during convalescence. A fourfold or greater increase in serum antibody titer during convalescence compared to the early stage supports the diagnosis of influenza A.

　　If diagnosed with influenza A, patients may follow medical advice to take antiviral medications such as oral antiviral liquid, Lianhua Qingwen capsules, or oseltamivir phosphate capsules. Additionally, adequate rest and a light diet are recommended to aid in recovery.