INFLUENZA SCREEN

Influenza is a highly contagious, acute viral infection of the respiratory tract. The influenza virus primarily attacks the respiratory tract weakening the immune system. It can lead to serious complications like pneumonia, especially in the elderly with those with other chronic health problems. The early diagnosis of influenza is useful in prescribing the correct treatment for the disease.

This antibody test will not detect if a person has had the Influenza A strain H1N1 or swine flu.

Type A viruses are the most common and are associated with the most serious health risks and epidemics.

Type B viruses are generally milder than that caused by type A.

Type C viruses are less infectious causing either minor discomfort or no symptoms at all (hence not included in The Screen).

Influenza viruses are contracted primarily by the inhalation of airborne contaminated droplets from other infected individuals. Because the disease is so contagious, influenza can be epidemic in proportions infecting many individuals at the same time.