Several respiratory viruses are currently on the rise in Quebec. What to do when you have flu-like symptoms?
Typical symptoms of the flu (influenza) are a sudden onset of fever of 38.5 degrees Celsius or higher OR a dry cough AND at least one of the following symptoms: sore throat, arthralgia (joint pain), myalgia (muscle pain) and extreme fatigue.
If you develop flu-like symptoms, you should first take a rapid home test for COVID-19.
If the test is positive, the appropriateness of receiving COVID treatment (Paxlovid or others) should be assessed. Paxlovid can be prescribed by your doctor or pharmacist, only if you meet certain criteria (eg people not adequately vaccinated against COVID-19, immunosuppressed people and people at very high risk of complications).
If the COVID test is negative and you are at risk of developing complications from influenza (see risk factors for complications below), you should schedule an appointment for an influenza test by visiting on the Clic santé website or by calling 1-877-644-4545. Screening centers will be able to screen for COVID-19 and influenza. The results will be available in 15 to 20 minutes and will be communicated to you immediately. If the influenza test is positive, you can call your pharmacy or your medical clinic to assess whether you are eligible to receive antiviral treatment (Tamiflu, oseltamivir, zanamivir). If the flu test is negative, you can relieve your symptoms with over-the-counter medications, stay home, and rest.
Courtesy Pharmaprix
Risk factors for influenza complications
– child under 2 years old
– person aged 75 and over
– resident of a CHSLD, a seniors’ residence or an intermediate resource
– person with a chronic disease (heart, lung, kidney, liver, hematological, neurological, cancer, immunosuppression, obesity)
– child and adolescent in prolonged treatment with acetylsalicylic acid
– pregnant woman
– person who lives in a remote or isolated community
Antiviral treatment (Tamiflu, oseltamivir, zanamivir) should be started as soon as possible, ideally within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms.
In any case, when you have flu-like symptoms, stay home, wear your mask if you have to go out and wash your hands frequently.
If you haven’t already, there’s still time to get your flu shot. Make your appointment on the Clic santé website.
Article written in collaboration with Pharmaprix Saint-Charles-Borromée
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