What does the influenza do to the body, and how to recover?

Question

Hello doctor,

I am 28 years old and tested positive for influenza A two days ago. My fever reached 102.4 degrees Fahrenheit, and now I am experiencing chills, body aches, a dry cough, and extreme fatigue. I started taking Oseltamivir on the first day, but I still feel very weak. How long will it take to get better? I am also on my period right now, and it is making everything worse. Should I stay away from my partner and children even if I wear a mask? Can you explain in simple terms what the flu (influenza) does to the body and how to recover faster? Also, is it true that the flu vaccine does not always give full protection?

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Influenza A can cause significant tiredness, body aches, fever, and breathing symptoms, even if you have started Oseltamivir early. It is normal to feel still very weak two to four days into the illness, and recovery usually takes about five to seven days. It is important to stay away from your partner and children, especially during the first three to five days of illness when you are most contagious, even if you wear a mask. Try to sleep in a separate room, avoid close contact, and clean shared surfaces often.

Influenza is a virus that enters your breathing system, which is why you have symptoms like a cold and a cough. This activates your immune system, and the body increases temperature (fever) to fight the virus. During this time, you may feel tired and have body aches. Oseltamivir works by reducing how much the virus grows. Rest as much as you can and drink a lot of fluids to stay hydrated. Take a tablet of Ibuprofen whenever you have a fever; it also helps with body aches. Please follow up with me after one week.

I hope you are satisfied with my answer. For further queries, you can consult me at iCliniq.

Thank you.