What should I do for sore throat and cough caused by influenza B?

Apr 10, 2023 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

Hello, doctor. Recently, people around me have been infected with influenza B. I'd like to ask, what should I do if I get a sore throat and cough from influenza B?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Jiang Weimin
It is strongly recommended that patients with influenza B seek immediate medical attention to determine the presence of a viral infection. First, an examination of the mouth should be conducted to check for signs of inflammation such as redness, swelling, pain, and damaged oral mucosa. Second, pharyngitis should be diagnosed by inspecting the throat and pharynx for redness and inflammation, checking for pus spots on the pharyngeal mucosa and whether lymph nodes are swollen, and assessing whether the respiratory tract is infected by a virus. For patients confirmed to have a viral infection, antiviral medications, including antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drugs, are recommended to effectively treat sore throat and cough. Additionally, patients with influenza B should take prescribed medication and drink plenty of warm water to soothe the throat. Smoking should be reduced, and rooms should be well-ventilated to lower the risk of viral infection. Furthermore, patients should maintain strong mental resilience, avoid depression, adhere to healthy lifestyle habits, and strengthen their immune system to effectively prevent influenza B-related sore throat, inflammation, and cough.