冬季流感“大考” 这份锦囊请收好

Core Viewpoint - The recent increase in pediatric patients with flu-like symptoms in Zhejiang indicates a significant rise in respiratory infections, prompting health authorities to recommend early flu vaccinations as a preventive measure [3][4]. Group 1: Current Situation - Hospitals in Zhejiang, including Zhejiang University of Traditional Chinese Medicine Second Hospital and Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, have reported a noticeable increase in pediatric outpatient visits due to fever, cough, and sore throat [3]. - The city’s disease control center anticipates that influenza will be a major acute respiratory infectious disease this winter and spring, urging citizens to get vaccinated early [3]. Group 2: Flu Characteristics and Risks - Influenza, caused by the influenza virus, is more contagious and has more severe symptoms compared to the common cold, with current cases showing high fever above 39 degrees Celsius, chills, cough, sore throat, and nasal congestion [4]. - The predominant strain this season is the H3N2 subtype, contrasting with last year's H1N1 subtype, and immunity from previous infections may wane over time, making reinfection possible [4]. - High-risk groups, including children, the elderly, pregnant women, and those with chronic illnesses, are more susceptible to severe complications like pneumonia and respiratory failure [4]. Group 3: Medical Recommendations - Health experts recommend that parents seek medical attention promptly if children exhibit flu symptoms, especially if they show signs of severe illness such as lethargy or difficulty breathing [4][5]. - Vaccination is emphasized as the most effective means of preventing influenza and reducing the risk of severe complications, with effective immunity typically developing 2-4 weeks post-vaccination [4]. Group 4: Misconceptions and Treatment Guidelines - Parents are advised against the blind use of antibiotics for viral infections, as they are ineffective unless a secondary bacterial infection occurs [5]. - It is recommended that children with flu-like symptoms wear masks and avoid public transport to prevent virus transmission, and those diagnosed with influenza should isolate at home until symptoms resolve [7]. - Common misconceptions include the inappropriate use of cough suppressants, reliance on sweating to reduce fever, and the ineffectiveness of home remedies like ginger water for treating influenza [8][9][10].