Aug
The influenza virus itself may only be present for a few days, but for some people, the effects can be long-lasting.
Numerous compelling reasons support the decision to receive an annual flu shot, aimed at safeguarding oneself against the contagious and occasionally severe respiratory ailment, influenza, as defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC’s estimations reveal a sobering statistic of 12,000–52,000 annual flu-related fatalities. While acknowledging that the vaccine doesn’t confer absolute immunity against the virus, it significantly enhances defense mechanisms. Even in cases where infection occurs, vaccination substantially diminishes the likelihood of developing a severe flu episode leading to hospitalization, as underscored by the CDC. Additionally, vaccination reduces the risk of transmitting the flu to others, thereby contributing to communal protection.
Nevertheless, a lesser-discussed rationale underscores the importance of receiving the flu shot and adopting preventive measures against influenza.
The ramifications of the flu extend beyond the one-week period of physical illness caused by the virus. According to CDC findings, the flu can potentially induce enduring effects that compromise health for weeks, months, or even on a permanent basis.
Heart Complications
A noteworthy 2018 investigation published in the New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM) revealed a concerning correlation between respiratory illnesses and heart attacks. The study illuminated that individuals diagnosed with the flu faced a sixfold escalation in heart attack risk during the week following diagnosis, as compared to the year prior to or post the infection.
Intriguingly, influenza has been substantiated as a catalyst for heightened susceptibility to heart-related complications. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that approximately half of flu-related hospitalizations among adults are intertwined with pre-existing heart conditions. Additionally, a 2020 study featured in the Annals of Internal Medicine underscored that 12% of hospitalized flu patients encountered heart-related complications.
William Schaffner, MD, an accomplished infectious disease specialist from Vanderbilt University, conveyed that a consensus exists among experts that the elevated risk of heart attacks and strokes persists for a span of two to four weeks, potentially extending into the second month post-flu diagnosis. However, this crucial information remains somewhat elusive to the general populace and even many healthcare practitioners. Dr. Schaffner noted that during his interactions with fellow doctors in continuing education settings, their unfamiliarity with this connection is palpable.
Individuals with a history of heart disease or stroke are particularly susceptible to flu-related complications, a fact emphasized by the CDC. Consequently, obtaining the flu vaccine is of paramount importance for this demographic, serving as a preventive measure against the potential exacerbation of these complications.
Secondary Infections
The influenza virus can also significantly impact the immune system, rendering individuals susceptible to additional maladies and infections, such as pneumonia, as highlighted by the American Lung Association.
Although pneumonia is commonly recognized as a potential complication of the flu, it’s not uncommon for an individual to develop pneumonia after the initial flu symptoms have subsided. Dr. Sharon Nachman, Chief of the Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases at Stony Brook University School of Medicine, noted the frequency of this occurrence, stating that individuals often experience an initial improvement in their condition, only to relapse into discomfort. This phenomenon can be perplexing as it may seem counterintuitive to the recovery process. Dr. Nachman clarified that the reason for this relapse is not a lingering flu infection, but rather the emergence of a new secondary infection.
Dr. Nachman further explained that these secondary infections can sometimes be bacterial in nature, necessitating the use of antibiotics for effective treatment. Dr. William Schaffner added that it’s reasonable to experience a less-than-optimal state of health after enduring a severe bout of the flu. However, if symptoms persist beyond a few weeks, seeking medical attention is recommended to rule out more serious underlying conditions.
Abnormal Test Results
The body exerts considerable effort to combat the flu virus, requiring a period of time to fully recuperate from its pre-flu condition. Consequently, it’s understandable that recent encounters with influenza can influence the outcomes of blood tests and medical assessments, as explained by Dr. Sharon Nachman.
Dr. Nachman highlighted, “Following most viral illnesses, a decrease in your white blood cell count is anticipated.” Therefore, individuals scheduled for routine medical evaluations subsequent to a bout of the flu should proactively inform their healthcare provider about their recent illness. This disclosure ensures that healthcare professionals take into account the potential impact of the flu on the test results, enabling them to interpret the findings more accurately.
Physical Decline in Older Adults
In the case of older adults, contracting the flu can initiate a potentially cascading decline in both their overall health and their ability to independently manage their well-being. The ramifications extend beyond the immediate risk of severe complications and mortality during the flu episode. Older adults are confronted with an elevated probability of enduring a diminished quality of life in the aftermath of the illness, as elucidated by Dr. William Schaffner.
Dr. Schaffner emphasized the profound impact of infections like the flu on older adults, stating, “The toll that a viral infection like the flu takes on one’s body is noteworthy, leading to significant loss of muscle tone with each passing day.” This phenomenon is particularly concerning for individuals already hovering on the brink of frailty, as it could precipitate a trajectory of decline that is challenging to reverse entirely. The dual challenges of regaining physical strength and restoring self-assurance can be formidable hurdles.
In light of this, Dr. Schaffner emphasized the importance of vigilant monitoring by healthcare providers and loved ones following a flu diagnosis in older adults. He underscored the necessity of ensuring that they receive the appropriate support to regain their customary routines. In certain instances, the assistance of physical therapy might even be indispensable to facilitate their recovery process.
Lost Strength and Endurance
The decline in muscle tone and strength post-flu is a particularly critical concern for older adults. However, it’s worth noting that this effect can also extend, to a lesser degree, to younger individuals who have contracted the flu, according to Dr. William Schaffner. Engaging in exercise as part of the recovery process following the flu holds potential benefits, contributing to an improved sense of well-being. Dr. Schaffner recommended a gradual re-entry into physical activity, beginning with low-intensity endeavors such as brisk walking. He shared his own experience, stating, “When I’ve returned to the gym post-flu, I’ve started with reduced weights and repetitions before gradually progressing back to my usual routine.”
This viewpoint was supported by Dr. Sharon Nachman, who likened the recovery process to healing from trauma. Dr. Nachman drew an analogy to recovering from a broken leg where one can’t immediately resume strenuous activities after the cast is removed. Similarly, after grappling with a severe viral infection like the flu, the body requires sufficient time for recuperation. Rushing into rigorous physical activity immediately can potentially exacerbate feelings of illness. Dr. Nachman urged individuals to heed their body’s cues and recommended adjusting the intensity if symptoms like breathlessness or excessive fatigue arise. Scaling back for a few days when necessary is advised.
A Quick Review
The potential consequences following a flu episode might not be as widely recognized or prominently highlighted as the apparent symptoms and immediate complications associated with influenza. Dr. William Schaffner remarked, “These enduring effects shed light on the flu as an even more formidable virus than previously comprehended. Its severity extends beyond its already acknowledged impact, and these persistent consequences add to its gravity.” This insight underscores the importance of influenza vaccination as a means of prevention, aiming to avert infection altogether.
The knowledge of these extended risks should bolster the motivation to seek vaccination and thereby mitigate the likelihood of succumbing to the flu in the first instance.
