Description
Begin by obtaining a detailed history, focusing on feeding patterns, regurgitation frequency, and associated symptoms such as irritability and poor weight gain. Conduct a thorough physical examination to identify signs of distress, such as arching of the back, fussiness during or after feeds, and respiratory symptoms. Rule out other causes of similar symptoms, including infections, metabolic disorders, and structural abnormalities. Evaluate the infant's feeding technique, assess for possible overfeeding or intolerance to certain formulas, and consider breastfeeding practices. Implement non-pharmacological interventions, such as feeding position adjustments, smaller and more frequent feeds, and thickening of feeds with rice cereal. If conservative measures prove ineffective, consider acid-suppressing medications under the guidance of a pediatric gastroenterologist, taking into account potential risks and benefits.
Résumé
- Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is an acute, febrile, and highly contagious respiratory infection characterized by sudden onset of fever, chills, myalgia, headache, fatigue, and potentially pharyngitis, rhinitis, or cough. Infants may present with gastrointestinal symptoms. Globally, seasonal influenza affects a billion people, leading to millions of severe illnesses and hundreds of thousands of respiratory deaths annually.
- The influenza virus is an eight-segmented single-stranded RNA virus of the orthomyxoviridae family, primarily classified into types A, B, and C. Transmission occurs via aerosolized respiratory particles, droplets from coughing or sneezing, and fomites. The incubation period ranges from 1 to 7 days, with communicability starting one day before symptom onset and lasting up to 7 days after.
- Clinical symptoms include fever, dry cough, headache, muscle pains, malaise, and potential sore throat or runny nose. Complications such as sinusitis, otitis media, pneumonia, or neurological issues may arise. Differential diagnosis involves distinguishing influenza from other respiratory viruses, COVID-19, and allergic conditions.
- Treatment strategies depend on the severity and risk factors. Mild cases require rest, hydration, and symptom management. Higher-risk categories necessitate antiviral medications, such as oseltamivir. Hospitalization is considered for severe cases presenting with red flag signs like breathing difficulties or dehydration.
- Prevention primarily involves vaccination, with quadrivalent vaccines updated annually based on WHO recommendations. Vaccination is recommended for individuals 6 months and older, especially high-risk groups, two to four weeks before the flu season. Non-pharmaceutical interventions, such as hand hygiene, cough etiquette, and isolation, also play a crucial role in preventing influenza spread.
Exemple de certificat
À propos des intervenants
Dr Pandu Chouhan
Consultant en gastroentérologie pédiatrique, hôpital KIMS, Hyderabad
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