专家：“硬扛”流感有健康风险

Core Viewpoint - The article emphasizes the health risks associated with the misconception that one can simply "tough it out" when infected with influenza, highlighting the need for proper medical intervention and vaccination [1][3]. Group 1: Differences Between Influenza and Common Cold - Influenza is fundamentally different from the common cold in terms of pathogens, symptoms, transmissibility, and potential complications [3]. - Influenza has a strong transmissibility and spreads primarily through droplets and close contact, leading to outbreaks in populations, while the common cold has weaker transmissibility and is mostly seen in sporadic cases [3]. - Complications from influenza can include severe conditions such as pneumonia, myocarditis, and encephalitis, which can even lead to death, necessitating the use of antiviral medications [3]. Group 2: Vaccination Recommendations - The current period is identified as the optimal time for influenza vaccination, particularly for individuals aged six months and older without contraindications, especially the elderly, children, and those with chronic underlying conditions [3]. - It is advised that individuals seek medical attention promptly if influenza symptoms appear, rather than self-medicating or "toughing it out," to avoid delays in treatment [3]. Group 3: Nature of Influenza Virus - The influenza virus is characterized by its high variability, with different strains circulating globally each year, which is why annual vaccination is necessary [3]. - The protective antibody levels generated by the influenza vaccine tend to decline significantly after six to eight months, further underscoring the need for yearly vaccinations [3]. Group 4: Current Health Status - The overall level of respiratory infectious diseases in Anhui Province is currently at a low level, despite the winter and spring being peak seasons for respiratory and gastrointestinal infections [3].