My father has influenza A. Can a flu shot prevent its severity?

Question

Hi doctor,

My father, aged 60, developed a fever, sore throat, and bodyache three days ago. The test for influenza A came positive, and the oxygen saturation is 97 %. He was started on Oseltamivir, but still feels very weak.

Can you give your suggestions on the following:

Is it normal for the fatigue to persist even after the fever settles?
Can this infection cause long-term breathing issues in older people?
Should the rest of our family take preventive tablets or just observe for symptoms?
He had a flu shot last year. How effective is the vaccine in preventing severe infection, and does he need to repeat it every single year?

Please suggest.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

I would like you to know that with severe viral infections like these, it is normal to feel weakness and fatigue for quite some time, even after the patient becomes asymptomatic or after the completion of the antiviral course.

Also, for people above the age of 60, the flu vaccine is recommended once every year and therefore should be taken, especially to avoid the risk of severe pneumonia.

Vaccine provides a considerable amount of protection, and therefore, chances of catching severe lung disease or lung impairment are rare but not nil.

And let me assure you that this totally depends on whether the patient has pre-existing co-morbidities and also on the overall immunity. The rest of the family does not require any pre-requisite medicines if there are no symptoms.

Just remember to stay hydrated, check the temperature in case of doubt, take enough vitamin C and D through diet, and see your doctor if any severe symptoms develop.

It is particularly important to see if any children in the house develop flu-like symptoms. Or you notice anyone having breathing difficulty, dropping oxygen saturation, or high-grade fever requires immediate medical attention.

I hope this will help you.

Thank you.