Influenza viruses are typically associated with infections of the upper respiratory tract causing mild to severe illness. Symptoms include fever, cough, headache, myalgia or malaise. Transmission is from person to person and is spread by aerosolization, droplet or direct contact with respiratory secretions. The incubation period is 1-4 days and the period of infectivity is 1-2 days before to up to 5 days of symptom onset.
Annual vaccination is advised in high risk groups. Information on the HSE National Immunisation guidelines can be viewed HERE.
Information and HPSC guidance on the treatment and prophylaxis of Influenza can be viewed HERE.
