Effects+of+influenza



= Effects of Influenza =

Seasonal uncomplicated influenza affects mainly the upper respiratory tract. Incubation takes two days and most people usually recover within two weeks without the need for antibiotics. The two groups most at risk of prolonged illness are the very old and the very young. People who also have an underlying medical condition can be at higher risk of complication 20]

The influenza virus prefers attachment to long glycans which terminate in sialic acids which are then linked to galactose via a 2, 6 alpha linkage. These glycans can be considered "receptors" for the influenza virus. They are present throughout the respiratory tract, but are found in various quantities in different locations. The tracheal and bronchial areas are heavily cilliated and therefore are an excellent infection site. The lower Bronchiolar regions within the lungs however, are not heavily cilliated and therefore prevent (at least initial) infection from spreading to these areas 12].

Symptoms of influenza can include a running nose, dry cough, joint pain, fatigue, headache and fever. It is possible, however, to also suffer from vomiting and diarrhea. In severe cases complications of both viral and bacterial types may arise 24]. These complications are discussed here.