{"id":17683,"date":"2026-03-03T00:29:13","date_gmt":"2026-03-02T23:29:13","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/?p=17683"},"modified":"2026-03-03T00:29:13","modified_gmt":"2026-03-02T23:29:13","slug":"kak-ne-zarazit-drugih-pri-grippe-pravila-karantina-i-gigieny","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/medlibrary\/how-not-to-infect-others-during-the-flu-quarantine-and-hygiene-rules-2\/","title":{"rendered":"How not to infect others with influenza: quarantine and hygiene rules"},"content":{"rendered":"<div class=\"fpm_start\"><\/div>\n<p>Influenza is not just a \"cold with a fever.\" It is an acute viral respiratory disease caused by RNA viruses of the genus *Influenzavirus*, which constantly mutate and deceive the immune system. Within 1-2 days after infection, a person becomes a source of infection \u2014 even before the first symptoms appear. In Spain, influenza affects from 5% to 15% of the population annually, and in epidemic seasons \u2014 up to 20%. It is especially dangerous for the elderly, children under 5 years old, and those with chronic diseases: asthma, diabetes, heart failure. But the biggest problem is not the severity of the disease in one person, but its ability to spread quickly through offices, schools, public transport, and even in the elevators of residential buildings. That is why knowing how not to infect others during influenza is not a matter of politeness, but an element of public safety.<\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_83 counter-flat ez-toc-counter ez-toc-light-blue ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">Content<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewbox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseprofile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/medlibrary\/how-not-to-infect-others-during-the-flu-quarantine-and-hygiene-rules-2\/#%D0%9A%D0%BB%D0%B0%D1%81%D1%81%D0%B8%D1%84%D0%B8%D0%BA%D0%B0%D1%86%D0%B8%D1%8F_%D0%B7%D0%B0%D0%B1%D0%BE%D0%BB%D0%B5%D0%B2%D0%B0%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%8F_%D0%BF%D0%BE_%D0%9C%D0%9A%D0%91-11\" >Classification of the disease according to ICD-11<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/medlibrary\/how-not-to-infect-others-during-the-flu-quarantine-and-hygiene-rules-2\/#%D0%98%D1%81%D1%82%D0%BE%D1%80%D0%B8%D1%8F_%D0%B7%D0%B0%D0%B1%D0%BE%D0%BB%D0%B5%D0%B2%D0%B0%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%8F_%D0%B8_%D0%B8%D0%BD%D1%82%D0%B5%D1%80%D0%B5%D1%81%D0%BD%D1%8B%D0%B5_%D0%B8%D1%81%D1%82%D0%BE%D1%80%D0%B8%D1%87%D0%B5%D1%81%D0%BA%D0%B8%D0%B5_%D1%84%D0%B0%D0%BA%D1%82%D1%8B_%D0%B2_%D0%BC%D0%B8%D1%80%D0%B5\" >History of the disease and interesting historical facts around the world<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/medlibrary\/how-not-to-infect-others-during-the-flu-quarantine-and-hygiene-rules-2\/#%D0%AD%D0%BF%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BC%D0%B8%D0%BE%D0%BB%D0%BE%D0%B3%D0%B8%D1%8F_%D0%B2_%D0%BC%D0%B8%D1%80%D0%B5_%D1%81%D1%82%D0%B0%D1%82%D0%B8%D1%81%D1%82%D0%B8%D0%BA%D0%B0_%D0%B2%D0%BE%D0%B7%D0%BD%D0%B8%D0%BA%D0%BD%D0%BE%D0%B2%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%8F_%D0%B7%D0%B0%D0%B1%D0%BE%D0%BB%D0%B5%D0%B2%D0%B0%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%8F\" >Epidemiology worldwide: statistics on the occurrence of the disease<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/medlibrary\/how-not-to-infect-others-during-the-flu-quarantine-and-hygiene-rules-2\/#%D0%93%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%B5%D1%82%D0%B8%D1%87%D0%B5%D1%81%D0%BA%D0%B0%D1%8F_%D0%BF%D1%80%D0%B5%D0%B4%D1%80%D0%B0%D1%81%D0%BF%D0%BE%D0%BB%D0%BE%D0%B6%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%BD%D0%BE%D1%81%D1%82%D1%8C_%D0%BA_%D0%B3%D1%80%D0%B8%D0%BF%D0%BF%D1%83\" >Genetic predisposition to influenza<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/medlibrary\/how-not-to-infect-others-during-the-flu-quarantine-and-hygiene-rules-2\/#%D0%A4%D0%B0%D0%BA%D1%82%D0%BE%D1%80%D1%8B_%D1%80%D0%B8%D1%81%D0%BA%D0%B0_%D0%B2%D0%BE%D0%B7%D0%BD%D0%B8%D0%BA%D0%BD%D0%BE%D0%B2%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%8F_%D0%B3%D1%80%D0%B8%D0%BF%D0%BF%D0%B0\" >Risk factors for flu occurrence<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/medlibrary\/how-not-to-infect-others-during-the-flu-quarantine-and-hygiene-rules-2\/#%D0%94%D0%B8%D0%B0%D0%B3%D0%BD%D0%BE%D1%81%D1%82%D0%B8%D0%BA%D0%B0_%D0%B3%D1%80%D0%B8%D0%BF%D0%BF%D0%B0_%D0%BA%D0%B0%D0%BA_%D0%BE%D1%82%D0%BB%D0%B8%D1%87%D0%B8%D1%82%D1%8C_%D0%BE%D1%82_%D0%9E%D0%A0%D0%92%D0%98_%D0%B8_%D0%B4%D1%80%D1%83%D0%B3%D0%B8%D1%85_%D0%B7%D0%B0%D0%B1%D0%BE%D0%BB%D0%B5%D0%B2%D0%B0%D0%BD%D0%B8%D0%B9\" >Diagnosis of influenza: how to distinguish it from ARVI and other diseases<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/medlibrary\/how-not-to-infect-others-during-the-flu-quarantine-and-hygiene-rules-2\/#%D0%9B%D0%B5%D1%87%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%B8%D0%B5_%D0%B3%D1%80%D0%B8%D0%BF%D0%BF%D0%B0_%D1%87%D1%82%D0%BE_%D1%80%D0%B5%D0%B0%D0%BB%D1%8C%D0%BD%D0%BE_%D0%BF%D0%BE%D0%BC%D0%BE%D0%B3%D0%B0%D0%B5%D1%82_%D0%B0_%D1%87%D1%82%D0%BE_%E2%80%94_%D0%BD%D0%B5%D1%82\" >Treatment of influenza: what really helps and what does not<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/medlibrary\/how-not-to-infect-others-during-the-flu-quarantine-and-hygiene-rules-2\/#%D0%A1%D0%BF%D0%B8%D1%81%D0%BE%D0%BA_%D0%BB%D0%B5%D0%BA%D0%B0%D1%80%D1%81%D1%82%D0%B2_%D0%BF%D1%80%D0%B8%D0%BC%D0%B5%D0%BD%D1%8F%D0%B5%D0%BC%D1%8B%D1%85_%D0%BF%D1%80%D0%B8_%D0%B3%D1%80%D0%B8%D0%BF%D0%BF%D0%B5_%D0%B2_%D0%98%D1%81%D0%BF%D0%B0%D0%BD%D0%B8%D0%B8\" >List of medications used for influenza in Spain<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/medlibrary\/how-not-to-infect-others-during-the-flu-quarantine-and-hygiene-rules-2\/#%D0%9C%D0%BE%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%82%D0%BE%D1%80%D0%B8%D0%BD%D0%B3_%D0%B7%D0%B0%D0%B1%D0%BE%D0%BB%D0%B5%D0%B2%D0%B0%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%8F_%D0%BA%D0%BE%D0%BD%D1%82%D1%80%D0%BE%D0%BB%D1%8C%D0%BD%D1%8B%D0%B5_%D1%8D%D1%82%D0%B0%D0%BF%D1%8B_%D0%BF%D1%80%D0%BE%D0%B3%D0%BD%D0%BE%D0%B7_%D0%BE%D1%81%D0%BB%D0%BE%D0%B6%D0%BD%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%8F\" >Disease monitoring: control stages, prognosis, complications<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/medlibrary\/how-not-to-infect-others-during-the-flu-quarantine-and-hygiene-rules-2\/#%D0%92%D0%BE%D0%B7%D1%80%D0%B0%D1%81%D1%82%D0%BD%D1%8B%D0%B5_%D0%BE%D1%81%D0%BE%D0%B1%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%BD%D0%BE%D1%81%D1%82%D0%B8_%D1%82%D0%B5%D1%87%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%8F_%D0%B3%D1%80%D0%B8%D0%BF%D0%BF%D0%B0\" >Age-related features of influenza<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/medlibrary\/how-not-to-infect-others-during-the-flu-quarantine-and-hygiene-rules-2\/#%D0%92%D0%BE%D0%BF%D1%80%D0%BE%D1%81%D1%8B_%D0%B8_%D0%BE%D1%82%D0%B2%D0%B5%D1%82%D1%8B_%D1%81%D0%B0%D0%BC%D1%8B%D0%B5_%D1%87%D0%B0%D1%81%D1%82%D1%8B%D0%B5_%D0%B7%D0%B0%D0%BF%D1%80%D0%BE%D1%81%D1%8B_%D0%BF%D0%B0%D1%86%D0%B8%D0%B5%D0%BD%D1%82%D0%BE%D0%B2\" >Questions and answers: the most frequent patient inquiries<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/medlibrary\/how-not-to-infect-others-during-the-flu-quarantine-and-hygiene-rules-2\/#%D0%A2%D0%B8%D0%BF%D0%B8%D1%87%D0%BD%D1%8B%D0%B5_%D0%BE%D1%88%D0%B8%D0%B1%D0%BA%D0%B8_%D0%BA%D0%BE%D1%82%D0%BE%D1%80%D1%8B%D0%B5_%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BB%D0%B0%D1%8E%D1%82_%D0%BB%D1%8E%D0%B4%D0%B8_%D0%BF%D1%80%D0%B8_%D0%B3%D1%80%D0%B8%D0%BF%D0%BF%D0%B5_%E2%80%94_%D0%B8_%D0%BA%D0%B0%D0%BA_%D0%B8%D1%85_%D0%B8%D0%B7%D0%B1%D0%B5%D0%B6%D0%B0%D1%82%D1%8C\" >Typical mistakes people make during influenza \u2014 and how to avoid them<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/medlibrary\/how-not-to-infect-others-during-the-flu-quarantine-and-hygiene-rules-2\/#%D0%98%D1%82%D0%BE%D0%B3_%D0%BA%D0%B0%D0%BA_%D0%BD%D0%B5_%D0%B7%D0%B0%D1%80%D0%B0%D0%B7%D0%B8%D1%82%D1%8C_%D0%B4%D1%80%D1%83%D0%B3%D0%B8%D1%85_%E2%80%94_%D0%BF%D0%BE%D1%88%D0%B0%D0%B3%D0%BE%D0%B2%D0%B0%D1%8F_%D1%81%D0%B8%D1%81%D1%82%D0%B5%D0%BC%D0%B0_%D0%B7%D0%B0%D1%89%D0%B8%D1%82%D1%8B\" >Conclusion: how not to infect others \u2014 a step-by-step protection system<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%D0%9A%D0%BB%D0%B0%D1%81%D1%81%D0%B8%D1%84%D0%B8%D0%BA%D0%B0%D1%86%D0%B8%D1%8F_%D0%B7%D0%B0%D0%B1%D0%BE%D0%BB%D0%B5%D0%B2%D0%B0%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%8F_%D0%BF%D0%BE_%D0%9C%D0%9A%D0%91-11\"><\/span>Classification of the disease according to ICD-11<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>In the International Classification of Diseases 11th Revision (ICD-11), adopted by WHO and in effect in Europe since 2022, influenza is coded as **1A00** \u2014 \"Influenza caused by influenza virus A\" and **1A01** \u2014 \"Influenza caused by influenza virus B.\" There are also subcodes for clarification:<br \/>\n\u2014 **1A00.0** \u2014 influenza A, without specifying the strain;<br \/>\n\u2014 **1A00.1** \u2014 influenza A(H1N1)pdm09 (\u201cswine flu\u201d);<br \/>\n\u2014 **1A002** \u2014 influenza A(H3N2);<br \/>\n\u2014 **1A01.0** \u2014 influenza B, lineage Victoria;<br \/>\n\u2014 **1A01.1** \u2014 influenza B, lineage Yamagata (although this lineage, according to ECDC data, has not circulated since 2020).<br \/>\nImportant: in ICD-11, influenza is never classified as \u201cacute respiratory viral infections\u201d (ARVI) \u2014 it is a separate nosological group. ARVI is a collective term for all other viruses (adenoviruses, rhinoviruses, parainfluenza, etc.), while influenza is strictly *Influenzavirus*. This distinction is critical for the prescription of antiviral drugs and epidemiological surveillance.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%D0%98%D1%81%D1%82%D0%BE%D1%80%D0%B8%D1%8F_%D0%B7%D0%B0%D0%B1%D0%BE%D0%BB%D0%B5%D0%B2%D0%B0%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%8F_%D0%B8_%D0%B8%D0%BD%D1%82%D0%B5%D1%80%D0%B5%D1%81%D0%BD%D1%8B%D0%B5_%D0%B8%D1%81%D1%82%D0%BE%D1%80%D0%B8%D1%87%D0%B5%D1%81%D0%BA%D0%B8%D0%B5_%D1%84%D0%B0%D0%BA%D1%82%D1%8B_%D0%B2_%D0%BC%D0%B8%D1%80%D0%B5\"><\/span>History of the disease and interesting historical facts around the world<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Influenza has been known to humanity since ancient times, but the first reliable descriptions date back to the Middle Ages. In 1580, the first documented pandemic occurred in Europe \u2014 it started in Asia, passed through Africa, and reached Spain in 3 months. At that time, doctors referred to it as \u201cchest fever\u201d because the main symptom \u2014 severe bronchospasm and shortness of breath \u2014 was more noticeable than fever.<br \/>\nThe most devastating pandemic \u2014 the \u201cSpanish flu\u201d of 1918\u20131919 \u2014 actually did not originate in Spain. The name stuck because Spain was a neutral country during World War I and did not censor news about the disease. In other countries, information was concealed \u2014 to avoid undermining morale. According to WHO estimates, 50 to 100 million people died over 2 years \u2014 more than in the entire war. Notably, this pandemic had a high mortality rate among young healthy people aged 20\u201340, rather than the elderly. Scientists still debate: possibly due to the \u201ccytokine storm\u201d \u2014 when the immune system overreacts and attacks its own lungs.<br \/>\nAnother interesting fact: in 1976, influenza A(H1N1) resembling the 1918 strain broke out at Fort Dix military base in the USA. The government launched a mass vaccination campaign \u2014 but a few weeks later it turned out that the epidemic had subsided on its own. More than 400 people developed Guillain-Barr\u00e9 syndrome after vaccination. This case became a turning point in the history of vaccination: now all new vaccines undergo multi-stage monitoring before mass use.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%D0%AD%D0%BF%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BC%D0%B8%D0%BE%D0%BB%D0%BE%D0%B3%D0%B8%D1%8F_%D0%B2_%D0%BC%D0%B8%D1%80%D0%B5_%D1%81%D1%82%D0%B0%D1%82%D0%B8%D1%81%D1%82%D0%B8%D0%BA%D0%B0_%D0%B2%D0%BE%D0%B7%D0%BD%D0%B8%D0%BA%D0%BD%D0%BE%D0%B2%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%8F_%D0%B7%D0%B0%D0%B1%D0%BE%D0%BB%D0%B5%D0%B2%D0%B0%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%8F\"><\/span>Epidemiology worldwide: statistics on the occurrence of the disease<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>According to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), seasonal influenza in Europe leads to:<br \/>\n\u2014 40,000\u201370,000 deaths per year;<br \/>\n\u2014 2\u20135 million hospitalizations;<br \/>\n\u2014 loss of 20\u201330 million workdays.<br \/>\nIn Spain, according to the Ministry of Health (Ministerio de Sanidad), the average seasonal rate:<br \/>\n\u2014 150\u2013250 cases per 100,000 population;<br \/>\n\u2014 peak activity \u2014 from December to March;<br \/>\n\u2014 in the 2022\/23 year, 187,000 laboratory-confirmed cases were registered (an increase of 40% compared to the previous season).<br \/>\nInterestingly, the flu \"does not like\" the tropics: it circulates year-round there, but without a clear peak. In temperate latitudes \u2014 like in Spain \u2014 seasonality is related to low humidity in winter and increased time spent indoors. Studies show: at relative humidity below 40%, viral droplets remain in the air longer, and the nasal mucosa dries out \u2014 reducing the protective function of the ciliated epithelium.<br \/>\nIt is worth noting: from 2020 to 2022, flu epidemics almost disappeared \u2014 not due to vaccines, but due to quarantine measures, masks, and social distancing. In 2023, when restrictions were lifted, Europe saw a \"resurgence spike\" \u2014 especially in Italy and Spain, where the incidence level exceeded pre-COVID figures. This indicates that collective immunity to the flu has \"decreased\" over two years without the circulation of the virus.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%D0%93%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%B5%D1%82%D0%B8%D1%87%D0%B5%D1%81%D0%BA%D0%B0%D1%8F_%D0%BF%D1%80%D0%B5%D0%B4%D1%80%D0%B0%D1%81%D0%BF%D0%BE%D0%BB%D0%BE%D0%B6%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%BD%D0%BE%D1%81%D1%82%D1%8C_%D0%BA_%D0%B3%D1%80%D0%B8%D0%BF%D0%BF%D1%83\"><\/span>Genetic predisposition to influenza<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Genetic susceptibility to the flu is not a myth, but a scientifically confirmed fact. Research published in the journal *Nature Genetics* (2021) identified several key genes that influence the severity of the disease:<br \/>\n\u2014 **IFITM3** (interferon-induced transmembrane protein 3): the rs12252-C mutation is associated with an increased risk of hospitalization. People with this variant have a defect in blocking the entry of the virus into the cell.<br \/>\n\u2014 **HLA-DQB1*06:02**: this variant of the major histocompatibility complex gene is associated with better recognition of viral peptides and a milder course of the disease.<br \/>\n\u2014 **MBL2** (mannose-binding lectin): polymorphisms of this gene reduce the effectiveness of innate immunity \u2014 such individuals are more likely to suffer severe illness.<br \/>\nImportant: genetic predisposition is not a sentence. It only changes probabilities. For example, in a carrier of rs12252-C, the risk of severe influenza is 3\u20135 times higher, but if a person gets vaccinated annually and maintains hygiene \u2014 the risk remains low. In Spain, studies are being conducted on screening IFITM3 in patients with recurrent respiratory infections \u2014 this is not yet part of standard practice, but is already used in clinical trials.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%D0%A4%D0%B0%D0%BA%D1%82%D0%BE%D1%80%D1%8B_%D1%80%D0%B8%D1%81%D0%BA%D0%B0_%D0%B2%D0%BE%D0%B7%D0%BD%D0%B8%D0%BA%D0%BD%D0%BE%D0%B2%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%8F_%D0%B3%D1%80%D0%B8%D0%BF%D0%BF%D0%B0\"><\/span>Risk factors for flu occurrence<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Risk factors can be divided into three groups: biological, behavioral, and environmental.<br \/>\n**Biological**:<br \/>\n\u2014 Age over 65 or under 2 years;<br \/>\n\u2014 Chronic diseases: COPD, asthma, coronary artery disease, type 2 diabetes, immunosuppression (e.g., due to HIV or after transplantation);<br \/>\n\u2014 Pregnancy (especially in the II\u2013III trimester) \u2014 due to physiological suppression of immunity.<br \/>\n**Behavioral**:<br \/>\n\u2014 Refusal of vaccination;<br \/>\n\u2014 Smoking (damages the cilia of the respiratory epithelium);<br \/>\n\u2014 Sleep deprivation (less than 6 hours a day reduces interferon production);<br \/>\n\u2014 Poor nutrition \u2014 deficiency of vitamin D, zinc, selenium.<br \/>\n**Environmental**:<br \/>\n\u2014 Dense development (high-rise buildings with shared elevators and corridors);<br \/>\n\u2014 Work in \"high-risk\" professions: medical personnel, teachers, public transport drivers;<br \/>\n\u2014 Winter period \u2014 at a temperature of +5\u2026+10\u00b0C and humidity 20\u201330% the virus remains viable for up to 48 hours on surfaces.<br \/>\nA special factor \u2014 **\"office effect\"**: in a closed room with air conditioning, where air circulates through common filters, the risk of infection increases 3 times compared to ventilated spaces. One study in Barcelona (2024) showed: in offices without regular replacement of HEPA filters, the level of viral particles in the air exceeded the permissible limit by 7 times.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%D0%94%D0%B8%D0%B0%D0%B3%D0%BD%D0%BE%D1%81%D1%82%D0%B8%D0%BA%D0%B0_%D0%B3%D1%80%D0%B8%D0%BF%D0%BF%D0%B0_%D0%BA%D0%B0%D0%BA_%D0%BE%D1%82%D0%BB%D0%B8%D1%87%D0%B8%D1%82%D1%8C_%D0%BE%D1%82_%D0%9E%D0%A0%D0%92%D0%98_%D0%B8_%D0%B4%D1%80%D1%83%D0%B3%D0%B8%D1%85_%D0%B7%D0%B0%D0%B1%D0%BE%D0%BB%D0%B5%D0%B2%D0%B0%D0%BD%D0%B8%D0%B9\"><\/span>Diagnosis of influenza: how to distinguish it from ARVI and other diseases<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>The main thing is not to confuse the flu with a common cold. Here are the key differences:<br \/>\n| Symptom | Flu | ARVI (for example, rhinovirus) |<br \/>\n|&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;|&#8212;&#8212;-|&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;&#8212;|<br \/>\n| Onset | Sudden (within 1\u20132 hours) | Gradual (1\u20132 days) |<br \/>\n| Temperature | High (38.5\u201340\u00b0C), lasts 3\u20135 days | Moderate (up to 38\u00b0C), 1\u20132 days |<br \/>\n| Muscle pain | Severe, \"aching\" | Mild or absent |<br \/>\n| Cough | Dry, deep, tormenting | Wet, weak |<br \/>\n| Nasal symptoms | Congestion late, scant mucus | Abundant rhinorrhea from the first day |<br \/>\n| Fatigue | Very pronounced, can last for weeks | Moderate, resolves in 2\u20133 days |<br \/>\nDiagnosis begins with clinical assessment but is confirmed in the laboratory:<br \/>\n\u2014 **Rapid antigen tests** (nasopharyngeal swab): result in 15 minutes, sensitivity 50\u201370% (better in the first 2 days of illness);<br \/>\n\u2014 **RT-PCR** \u2014 \"gold standard\": sensitivity &gt;95%, allows determination of virus type (A\/B) and subtype (H1N1, H3N2);<br \/>\n\u2014 **Serology** (ELISA for IgM\/IgG): used retrospectively, during epidemiological investigation.<br \/>\nRadiological methods (X-ray, CT) are not needed for the diagnosis of influenza but are used when complications are suspected: pneumonia, pleuritis. X-ray in viral pneumonia shows diffuse foci, \"ground glass,\" often bilateral.<br \/>\nDifferential diagnosis includes:<br \/>\n\u2014 COVID-19 (symptoms are almost identical \u2014 PCR differentiation is needed);<br \/>\n\u2014 Adenovirus infection (often with conjunctivitis);<br \/>\n\u2014 Parainfluenza (characterized by a barking cough and laryngeal stenosis in children);<br \/>\n\u2014 Bacterial pneumonia (temperature does not decrease after 5 days, purulent sputum).<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%D0%9B%D0%B5%D1%87%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%B8%D0%B5_%D0%B3%D1%80%D0%B8%D0%BF%D0%BF%D0%B0_%D1%87%D1%82%D0%BE_%D1%80%D0%B5%D0%B0%D0%BB%D1%8C%D0%BD%D0%BE_%D0%BF%D0%BE%D0%BC%D0%BE%D0%B3%D0%B0%D0%B5%D1%82_%D0%B0_%D1%87%D1%82%D0%BE_%E2%80%94_%D0%BD%D0%B5%D1%82\"><\/span>Treatment of influenza: what really helps and what does not<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Treating influenza is not about \"curing the virus,\" but about alleviating symptoms, preventing complications, and shortening the period of contagiousness (the time when you are infectious). Key principles:<br \/>\n**1. Antiviral therapy**<br \/>\nDrugs from the group of neuraminidase inhibitors (oseltamivir, zanamivir) are effective only when started within the first 48 hours of symptom onset. They reduce the duration of fever by 1\u20132 days and the risk of hospitalization by 60% in the elderly. In Spain, oseltamivir is available by prescription, but it is often in stock at pharmacies \u2014 especially in January\u2013February.<br \/>\n**2. Symptomatic therapy**<br \/>\n\u2014 Antipyretics: paracetamol (first choice), ibuprofen \u2014 only if there is no stomach ulcer. Aspirin is prohibited for children under 16 (risk of Reye's syndrome).<br \/>\n\u2014 Cough suppressants: codeine \u2014 only by prescription, for dry cough that interferes with sleep. Do not give to children without a doctor's supervision.<br \/>\n\u2014 Runny nose: saline solutions (for example, \"Aqua Maris\") \u2014 safe and effective. Decongestants (xylometazoline) \u2014 no more than 5 days, otherwise the risk of mucosal atrophy.<br \/>\n**3. Immune support**<br \/>\n\u2014 Drinking regime: at least 2 liters of fluid per day (water, sugar-free compotes, green tea with lemon). Dehydration exacerbates intoxication.<br \/>\n\u2014 Bed rest: at least 5 days from the moment of temperature normalization. Even if \"it\u2019s already easier\" \u2014 the body is still restoring resources.<br \/>\n\u2014 Vitamin D: if the level is below 20 ng\/ml \u2014 prescribe 2000\u20134000 IU\/day for 2 weeks. In Spain, vitamin D deficiency occurs in 40% adults in winter.<br \/>\nSurgical treatment for influenza is not used \u2014 except in extremely rare cases of lung abscess or pleural empyema requiring drainage.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%D0%A1%D0%BF%D0%B8%D1%81%D0%BE%D0%BA_%D0%BB%D0%B5%D0%BA%D0%B0%D1%80%D1%81%D1%82%D0%B2_%D0%BF%D1%80%D0%B8%D0%BC%D0%B5%D0%BD%D1%8F%D0%B5%D0%BC%D1%8B%D1%85_%D0%BF%D1%80%D0%B8_%D0%B3%D1%80%D0%B8%D0%BF%D0%BF%D0%B5_%D0%B2_%D0%98%D1%81%D0%BF%D0%B0%D0%BD%D0%B8%D0%B8\"><\/span>List of medications used for influenza in Spain<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Here is the current list of medications approved in Spain as of 2026, indicating the form of release and application features:<\/p><script data-noptimize=\"\" data-wpfc-render=\"false\">\nfpm_start( \"true\" );\n<\/script>\n\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Oseltamivir (Tamiflu)<\/strong> \u2014 capsules 75 mg Dose: 75 mg twice a day for 5 days. For prevention \u2014 75 mg once a day for 7\u201310 days. Contraindicated in severe renal failure.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Zanamivir (Relenza)<\/strong> \u2014 powder for inhalations. 2 doses (2\u00d75 mg) twice a day for 5 days. Not recommended in case of bronchial asthma or COPD in the history.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Baloxavir marboxil (Xofluza)<\/strong> \u2014 a new remedy, a single dose of 40 mg (children 5\u201312 years \u2014 20 mg). Acts faster but is more expensive. Available in Spain since 2023, but requires PCR confirmation.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Paracetamol (Panadol, Doloran)<\/strong> \u2014 tablets 500 mg. Up to 4 g\/day for adults. Do not mix with other medications containing paracetamol.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Ibuprofen (Nurofen)<\/strong> \u2014 400 mg, 3 times a day. Only in the absence of peptic ulcer disease and with normal kidney function.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Saline sprays (Salin, Aquamaris)<\/strong> \u2014 for nasal irrigation. Preservative-free \u2014 safe for pregnant women and children.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Important: antibiotics for influenza **are not prescribed**, if there are no signs of bacterial superinfection (purulent sputum, recurrent fever after subsiding, leukocytosis &gt;15\u00d710\u2079\/l). Self-prescribing antibiotics leads to resistance and dysbiosis.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%D0%9C%D0%BE%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%82%D0%BE%D1%80%D0%B8%D0%BD%D0%B3_%D0%B7%D0%B0%D0%B1%D0%BE%D0%BB%D0%B5%D0%B2%D0%B0%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%8F_%D0%BA%D0%BE%D0%BD%D1%82%D1%80%D0%BE%D0%BB%D1%8C%D0%BD%D1%8B%D0%B5_%D1%8D%D1%82%D0%B0%D0%BF%D1%8B_%D0%BF%D1%80%D0%BE%D0%B3%D0%BD%D0%BE%D0%B7_%D0%BE%D1%81%D0%BB%D0%BE%D0%B6%D0%BD%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%8F\"><\/span>Disease monitoring: control stages, prognosis, complications<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>After diagnosing influenza, it is important to organize monitoring. In Spain, for adults without risk factors, it is recommended:<br \/>\n\u2014 Temperature control 2 times a day for the first 3 days;<br \/>\n\u2014 Assessment of respiratory function: if shortness of breath worsens when climbing stairs \u2014 urgently to the doctor;<br \/>\n\u2014 Isolation period: at least 5 days from the onset of symptoms + 24 hours without fever (without antipyretics).<br \/>\nThe prognosis is favorable for 95% patients with timely treatment. But there are risk groups where the prognosis is more serious:<br \/>\n\u2014 Elderly (&gt;65 years): risk of pneumonia \u2014 10\u201315%;<br \/>\n\u2014 Children with 39\u00b0C, respiratory rate &gt;25 per minute, saturation &lt;94%, altered consciousness, blood pressure &lt;90 mm Hg \u2014 the emergency hospitalization protocol is automatically triggered.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%D0%92%D0%BE%D0%B7%D1%80%D0%B0%D1%81%D1%82%D0%BD%D1%8B%D0%B5_%D0%BE%D1%81%D0%BE%D0%B1%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%BD%D0%BE%D1%81%D1%82%D0%B8_%D1%82%D0%B5%D1%87%D0%B5%D0%BD%D0%B8%D1%8F_%D0%B3%D1%80%D0%B8%D0%BF%D0%BF%D0%B0\"><\/span>Age-related features of influenza<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Influenza in children is not a \"little adult.\" In infants under 2 years, it often masquerades as a \"cold,\" but with dangerous features:<br \/>\n\u2014 The temperature may be subfebrile (37.5\u201338.0\u00b0C), but the child is lethargic, refuses to breastfeed;<br \/>\n\u2014 Laryngotracheitis often develops \u2014 \"false croup\": sharp barking cough, stridor (wheezing breath), especially at night;<br \/>\n\u2014 The risk of seizures during fever is higher than with ARVI.<br \/>\nIn adolescents and young adults, influenza occurs acutely but quickly \u2014 if there are no complications, recovery takes 5\u20137 days. However, it is in this group that \"post-influenza asthenic conditions\" are most often observed: weakness, dizziness, decreased concentration \u2014 lasting up to 2 months. This is not \"laziness,\" but a real CNS recovery syndrome.<br \/>\nIn elderly people (&gt;65 years), influenza often \"masquerades\":<br \/>\n\u2014 The temperature can be normal or subfebrile;<br \/>\n\u2014 Main symptoms \u2014 worsening of well-being, confusion, drop in blood pressure;<br \/>\n\u2014 High risk of atypical pneumonia without cough;<br \/>\n\u2014 Mortality is 10 times higher than in young people.<br \/>\nIn Spain, starting from 2024, the \"Flu 65+\" program is in effect: express tests and oseltamivir are provided for free at pharmacies when an elderly person presents with symptoms. This has reduced hospitalizations in Catalonia by 22% for the season.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%D0%92%D0%BE%D0%BF%D1%80%D0%BE%D1%81%D1%8B_%D0%B8_%D0%BE%D1%82%D0%B2%D0%B5%D1%82%D1%8B_%D1%81%D0%B0%D0%BC%D1%8B%D0%B5_%D1%87%D0%B0%D1%81%D1%82%D1%8B%D0%B5_%D0%B7%D0%B0%D0%BF%D1%80%D0%BE%D1%81%D1%8B_%D0%BF%D0%B0%D1%86%D0%B8%D0%B5%D0%BD%D1%82%D0%BE%D0%B2\"><\/span>Questions and answers: the most frequent patient inquiries<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><strong>Question 1: Can you go outside with the flu if the temperature has dropped?<\/strong><br \/>\nNo. Even with a normal temperature, you remain contagious until the 7th day of the illness. The virus is released with droplets of saliva and mucus. If you need to go out \u2014 wear a medical mask, avoid public transport and crowded places. In Spain, violating quarantine (with a confirmed diagnosis) is punishable by a fine of up to 600 euros under law 33\/2011 on public health.<br \/>\n<strong>Question 2: How long does the virus live on surfaces? And how to disinfect properly?<\/strong><br \/>\nOn metal and plastic \u2014 up to 48 hours, on paper and fabric \u2014 up to 8\u201312 hours. Effective disinfection:<br \/>\n\u2014 Surfaces: 0.1% sodium hypochlorite solution (regular bleach diluted 1:100) or 70% alcohol;<br \/>\n\u2014 Dishes: boiling for 5 minutes or dishwasher at 60\u00b0C+;<br \/>\n\u2014 Laundry: washing at 60\u00b0C, adding a chlorine-containing agent;<br \/>\n\u2014 Air: ventilate every 2 hours for 10 minutes, or HEPA filter in the room.<br \/>\n<strong>Question 3: If I got vaccinated but still got sick \u2014 did the vaccine not work?<\/strong><br \/>\nNot necessarily. The vaccine does not guarantee 100% protection, but reduces severity by 60\u201380%. In 2025, the vaccine's effectiveness in Spain was 58% against the H3N2 strain and 72% against B\/Victoria. This means you could get sick, but without pneumonia, without hospitalization \u2014 and that is already a victory for the vaccine.<br \/>\n<strong>Question 4: Can I breastfeed while having the flu?<\/strong><br \/>\nYes, and you should. Antibodies are passed to the child through milk. But mandatory measures:<br \/>\n\u2014 Wear a mask while feeding;<br \/>\n\u2014 Wash your hands before contact with the child;<br \/>\n\u2014 Disinfect the pump and bottles after each use;<br \/>\n\u2014 If it's hard, express milk to maintain lactation.<br \/>\n<strong>Question 5: When can I return to work after the flu?<\/strong><br \/>\nOfficially \u2014 after 5 days from the onset of symptoms + 24 hours without fever without antipyretics. But if the job involves children, the elderly, or the sick \u2014 it's better to wait 7 days. In Spain, employers are required to accept a sick leave certificate issued in form 060, even if you were treated on an outpatient basis.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%D0%A2%D0%B8%D0%BF%D0%B8%D1%87%D0%BD%D1%8B%D0%B5_%D0%BE%D1%88%D0%B8%D0%B1%D0%BA%D0%B8_%D0%BA%D0%BE%D1%82%D0%BE%D1%80%D1%8B%D0%B5_%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BB%D0%B0%D1%8E%D1%82_%D0%BB%D1%8E%D0%B4%D0%B8_%D0%BF%D1%80%D0%B8_%D0%B3%D1%80%D0%B8%D0%BF%D0%BF%D0%B5_%E2%80%94_%D0%B8_%D0%BA%D0%B0%D0%BA_%D0%B8%D1%85_%D0%B8%D0%B7%D0%B1%D0%B5%D0%B6%D0%B0%D1%82%D1%8C\"><\/span>Typical mistakes people make during influenza \u2014 and how to avoid them<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Mistake #1: \"I don't cough anymore \u2014 that means I'm recovered.\"<br \/>\nIn fact, the virus continues to be shed until the 7th day. Even without a cough \u2014 when talking, sneezing, or blowing your nose, you infect those around you.<br \/>\n<strong>What to do:<\/strong> adhere to quarantine completely. Use separate dishes, towels, toothbrushes. Do not prepare food for the family for the first 5 days.<br \/>\nMistake #2: \"I'll take an antibiotic 'just in case'.\"<br \/>\nAntibiotics do not work on viruses. Taking them without indications leads to dysbiosis, allergies, and resistance.<br \/>\n<strong>What to do:<\/strong> take antivirals only as prescribed, with a confirmed diagnosis. If the temperature rises again after 5 days \u2014 then go to the doctor to look for a bacterial superinfection.<br \/>\nMistake #3: \"I'll ventilate the window \u2014 and it will be clean.\"<br \/>\nOne ventilation is not enough. The virus remains on surfaces.<br \/>\n<strong>What to do:<\/strong> Combine: ventilation + disinfection + wearing a mask in the presence of others. Especially important in the bedroom and bathroom.<br \/>\nMistake #4: \"Children will get sick \u2014 and their immunity will strengthen.\"<br \/>\nThis is a dangerous misconception. In children, the flu can lead to complications that do not occur in adults: myocarditis, Reye's syndrome, neurological consequences.<br \/>\n<strong>What to do:<\/strong> Vaccinate children from 6 months, especially if they attend daycare or school. In Spain, vaccination for children aged 6\u201324 months is free and mandatory as part of the national calendar.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"%D0%98%D1%82%D0%BE%D0%B3_%D0%BA%D0%B0%D0%BA_%D0%BD%D0%B5_%D0%B7%D0%B0%D1%80%D0%B0%D0%B7%D0%B8%D1%82%D1%8C_%D0%B4%D1%80%D1%83%D0%B3%D0%B8%D1%85_%E2%80%94_%D0%BF%D0%BE%D1%88%D0%B0%D0%B3%D0%BE%D0%B2%D0%B0%D1%8F_%D1%81%D0%B8%D1%81%D1%82%D0%B5%D0%BC%D0%B0_%D0%B7%D0%B0%D1%89%D0%B8%D1%82%D1%8B\"><\/span>Conclusion: how not to infect others \u2014 a step-by-step protection system<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>If you or your loved one has contracted the flu, do not panic, but act clearly. Here is a proven system that I recommend to my patients in Barcelona:<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li><strong>The first 24 hours:<\/strong> take a PCR test (in Spain \u2014 in 30 minutes, 35 euros), start oseltamivir upon confirmation.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Days 1\u20135:<\/strong> isolation in a separate room, mask when going into the hallway, daily disinfection of surfaces, separate dishes.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Days 5\u20137:<\/strong> continue isolation even if you feel well. Check your temperature in the morning and evening.<\/li>\n<li><strong>After 7 days:<\/strong> if there is no fever for 24 hours, you can go out \u2014 but wearing a mask, without contact with the elderly and children for another 2 days.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>The main thing \u2014 remember: flu is not a personal problem, but a public health issue. In Spain, about 200,000 people become \"invisible carriers\" every year \u2014 they do not know they are sick and go to work, shops, and public transport. Your responsibility is to prevent this. Vaccination, hand hygiene, and wearing masks during the epidemic season are not fear, but respect for others. And yes \u2014 if you stayed home today, tomorrow you can return to life without guilt and with a clear conscience. Because you not only recovered \u2014 you preserved the health of those around you.<\/p>\n<div class=\"fpm_end\"><\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Influenza is not just a \"cold with a fever.\" It is an acute viral respiratory disease caused by RNA viruses of the genus *Influenzavirus*, which constantly<\/p>","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":24195,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[298],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-17683","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-medlibrary"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17683","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=17683"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17683\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":19640,"href":"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/17683\/revisions\/19640"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/24195"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=17683"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=17683"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/valintermed.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=17683"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}