Duration of the treatment | Treatment of influenza

Duration of the treatment

First symptoms appear one to two days (so-called incubation period) after the infection with the influenza virus has taken place. Typical for a real flu is that the first symptoms start very suddenly and strongly instead of appearing insidiously. For antiviral therapy to be effective or to have a noticeable benefit, it is extremely important that it is started within the first 48 hours after the onset of symptoms.

For oseltamivir, for example, an application period of 5 days is recommended, but depending on the severity of the disease a longer intake is also possible, but this must be decided individually. Also some other drugs used for symptomatic therapy, such as paracetamol or various combination preparations should not be taken indefinitely over a long period without medical advice. The average duration of a flu, even untreated, is about 5-7 days.

If the illness persists for a significantly longer period without a significant improvement in symptoms, a doctor should be consulted anyway. In the case of influenza, strict bed rest should be maintained for up to three days after the fever has subsided. Paracetamol can be administered against the fever and for pain.

The active ingredient acetylsalicylic acid, e.g. contained in aspirin, should never be used in patients under 18 years of age. It is important to ensure a sufficient fluid intake, especially in the case of fever, and a diet rich in vitamin C, e.g. in the form of fruit and vegetable juices or dietary supplements. Household remedies for lowering fever are cold calf compresses with curd cheese; fresh ginger or sage tea is recommended for sore throats. For severe coughs and colds, inhaling mint or eucalyptus oil in hot water provides relief. In case of complications, medical advice should be sought immediately and in some cases hospitalization may be necessary.

Home remedies

Since there is an increased risk of illness and complications (including death and intensive care of the mother as well as stillbirth and premature birth) during pregnancy, the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) and the Standing Vaccination Commission (STIKO) recommend vaccination with inactivated vaccine in the second third of pregnancy or, in the case of an increased health risk due to a chronic illness, already in the first third. Damage to the unborn child by the virus itself is not assumed, however, prolonged high fever of the mother can increase the risk of developmental disorders, which is why in this case a drug-based fever reduction is very important. This is mainly done with paracetamol, but until week 28 of pregnancy ibuprofen can also be used.

Not much is yet known about the use of antiviral drugs during pregnancy, so this should only be done after a strict indication. The transition of such drugs into breast milk is, according to current knowledge, only slightly or, depending on the drug, not yet known. Breastfeeding breaks do not seem to be necessary.