Seasonal Influenza

1. Seasonal Influenza: The
Germs Stop Here
Stacie Plummer, RN, BSN
Teaching Learning Strategies
NURS 6331-1
Walden University

2. Learning Objectives
By the end of the lesson the learner will be able to:
• Define seasonal influenza
• List the symptoms associated with seasonal influenza
• Describe how the flu spreads and identify higher risk groups
• Explain appropriate prevention and treatment options
• Demonstration proper administration of an influenza vaccine

3. Current Flu Activity and Surveillance

4. Flu Basics: Definition and Symptoms
Seasonal influenza is defined as a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses
Individuals who contract the virus may present with symptoms such as:
• Fever
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle aches
• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Vomiting and diarrhea (more common in children than adults)

5. High-Risk Individuals: Inclusion
Criteria
• Individuals 65 years and older
• Patients of any age with a chronic medical condition (such as asthma,
diabetes, or heart disease)
• Pregnant Women
• Young children

6. The Spread of Influenza
Flu viruses spread by droplets which are created when people with the
flu cough, sneeze or talk
The spread of influenza occurs when droplets land in the mouths or
noses of people who are nearby or possibly inhaled into the lungs
The flu may also be spread by touching a surface or object that has the
flu virus on it and then touching your mouth or nose

7. Treatment Options: Antiviral Drugs
What are Antiviral Drugs?
• Prescription medications (Tamiflu, Relenza, and Rapivab) that can
lessen symptoms and shorten the time you are sick by 1 or 2 days.
They can also prevent serious complications such as pneumonia
What are the possible side effects?
• Nausea, vomiting, dizziness, runny or stuffy nose, cough, diarrhea,
headache and some behavioral side effects

8. Administration of the Influenza
Vaccine

10. References
• American Pharmacists Association. (n.d.). Vaccine Administration Techniques. Retrieved
from http://www.pharmacist.com/vaccine-administration-techniques
• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2014, July 28). Influenza (Flu). Retrieved
from http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/disease/index.htm
• Felicilda-Reynaldo, R. D. (2014). Types of Flu Vaccines for Yearly
Immunization. MEDSURG Nursing, 23(4), 256- 260. Retrieved from
http://web.a.ebscohost.com.ezp.waldenulibrary.org/ehost/p
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