This year, flu season has arrived earlier than usual and is now in full swing. Although the flu is mild for most people and symptoms subside within a few days, it is still important to be vigilant, especially for those who are vulnerable. In this article, we discuss some important issues surrounding flu season and why a telemedicine consultation may be appropriate.
Flu season: some facts
Each year, flu season occurs, usually between November and April. New strains of the virus appear year after year. This makes our bodies constantly vulnerable to new forms of the influenza virus circulating in the population.
Influenza is effectively a viral infection, which occurs because of an infection with the influenza virus. There is no specific treatment for influenza, but the body is able to fight the infection in healthy people. However, influenza can cause serious complications in vulnerable individuals, including the elderly, infants and young children, and those who are immunosuppressed. Individuals with comorbidities are also at increased risk of complications. The Public Health Agency of Canada estimates that in recent years, influenza has resulted in an average of 12,200 hospitalizations in Canada. It is estimated that 3,500 people die from influenza each year.
Influenza can cause different symptoms:
- Fever is present in all infected persons;
- Coughing
- Sore throat;
- Aches and pains in the muscles;
- Significant fatigue;
The flu and the common cold are often associated because the symptoms are similar. However, the cold does not cause a fever.
How to react?
In the event of the flu, there are a few tips that can be applied to control symptoms, promote healing and prevent complications. However, there are a few tips to keep in mind if you are in a group that is more vulnerable to complications.
- Stay well hydrated: because of the fever, we usually sweat more than usual. This increases the body’s need for water, so it is important to consume fluids of all kinds to stay well hydrated despite the flu.
- Rest: It is important to take the necessary rest to allow the immune system to fight the infection. Your immune system is being put to the test. You should limit your activities and stay home.
- Control fever: To fight the fever, it is a good idea to take anti-inflammatory or analgesic medications such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen. They can help reduce fever and fight potential muscle pain. In addition, temperatures should be taken regularly to monitor their level.
- Take other medications depending on the symptoms: medications can be taken, for example, to fight coughs and sore throats. However, it is important to respect the dosage indicated and the contraindications. In addition, it is important to consider all of the medications taken during the same day so as not to exceed the maximum dose.
- Call Info Santé: if you are worried, if your symptoms persist after several days, or if you feel short of breath, you should contact Info Santé. The nurse on the other end of the line will be able to tell you if you need to see a doctor and if there is a risk of complications.
If the fever persists after 5 days or increases, a professional should be consulted quickly. This is also the case if breathing difficulties or chest pains occur. In case of disorientation and confusion, it is necessary to consult urgently since these may be signs of dehydration, a situation that can have serious consequences.
Telemedicine for the flu
In the case of influenza, it may be appropriate to consult via telemedicine. Indeed, the doctor can evaluate the symptoms and the situation of a patient, even virtually. Certain medications could also be prescribed to help control symptoms, such as fever. The prescription is then sent quickly and directly to the client or their pharmacy.
In addition, the physician can provide personalized advice for symptom management and recovery. In the case of co-morbidity or potential complications, medical advice may also be appropriate. If he or she feels it is necessary, the physician may refer to an in-person consultation.
With Clinique GO™, getting a telemedicine consultation is easy. Simply click on the “Book a Telemedicine Appointment” button and fill out the form. One is then connected with a doctor virtually, within minutes. The consultation can then take place and the doctor is able to provide the necessary advice, whatever the reason for the consultation.
Approuvé par Francis Desjardins
