How to Determine if It's Influenza A
Disease description:
Recently feeling unwell, suspecting it might be influenza A. Would like to know how to determine it—based on symptoms or is testing required?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Ren Yi
Influenza A, commonly known as H1N1 flu, is an acute respiratory infectious disease caused by the Influenza A virus. Its main symptoms include high fever, cough, sore throat, muscle pain, headache, fatigue, nasal congestion, and runny nose.
If the above symptoms appear and the condition deteriorates rapidly, Influenza A should be considered as a possible cause. If there is a clear history of contact with an individual diagnosed with Influenza A, combined with the appearance of related symptoms in the patient, the likelihood of Influenza A infection increases.
Nasal or throat swabs are collected to detect the presence of Influenza A viral nucleic acid. This method has high specificity and sensitivity, enabling accurate identification of Influenza A virus infection and its specific type.
Respiratory samples are collected for testing. If the antigen test result is positive, it indicates that the patient is likely infected with the Influenza A virus. Changes in antibody levels against the influenza virus in the patient's serum can also be tested. Generally, blood samples need to be collected during the early stage of illness and again during recovery for comparison.
Regardless of whether Influenza A is confirmed or not, good personal hygiene practices should be followed, such as frequent handwashing, wearing masks, and avoiding crowded places.
