Influenza

(Seasonal) influenza is caused by the influenza virus. Influenza begins suddenly, with symptoms that may include coughing, a runny nose, headache, sore throat, muscle pain, fatigue, fever, and chills. The flu season generally runs from November to April.

Transmission occurs through coughing up droplets from the patient's throat and, to a lesser extent, through direct or indirect contact.

From the day before symptoms start until 5-7 days afterwards.

1 to 4 days (usually 2 days).

The employer offers annual flu vaccinations.

• There is a risk of infection after unprotected contact with an infectious source: longer than 15 minutes within 1.5 meters.
• Unprotected intubation/suctioning of patients or other aerosol-generating procedures.
• Direct coughing in the face.

During an epidemic, everyone is at risk of becoming infected with the influenza virus. The risk is highest in enclosed, crowded spaces.

The groups at increased risk of complications are determined by patient-related factors, such as existing immunity, age, and underlying diseases such as diabetes and lung disease.

There is a risk of further spread. This can be limited by good hand hygiene and by wearing an IIR surgical mask.

See SRI isolation guideline. Depending on the isolation policy of your umc: IIR surgical mask, gloves, apron, or isolation gown. For aerosol-generating procedures: FFP2 mask and safety goggles.

Good hand hygiene and cough hygiene and wearing an IIR surgical mask if you have symptoms.

• Influenza | LCI guideline RIVM
• Influenza and flu shots | RIVM
• Vaccination of employees: flu | advice from the Health Council of the Netherlands