It is much easier to avoid the flu than to treat it in a long and difficult way. Therefore, it is imperative to take care of flu prevention. Many people think that preventing the flu means simply not communicating with a sick person and wearing an antiviral mask. But that's not true. There are three types of flu prevention. Want to know which ones?

Adverse reactions of the body, which doctors usually warn about before vaccination, may include flu-like symptoms. Is it muscle or headache, elevated temperature - no higher than 37.5 degrees, redness or slight swelling at the injection site. All these symptoms are quite mild and usually disappear within a day or two. According to statistics, only 1 in a million people experience severe side effects after getting a flu vaccine, so don’t be afraid to get vaccinated.

If you want the vaccine not to cause any health problems for you, you should notify your doctor about any illnesses you have suffered in the month before vaccination. And also about allergies to any drugs, especially to protein chicken egg, on the basis of which most vaccines are made. The vaccine should not be given to people who:

• Have you ever been allergic to chicken egg white, a component of the vaccine?
• Have been or are currently suffering from colds or chronic diseases in the acute stage
• Had allergies to vaccinations in other years
• Patients with fever and pain of any origin
• Children under six months
• Pregnant women in the first trimester

Be that as it may, the protective properties of vaccination significantly exceed those possible risks that may arise from its administration. For example, the number of influenza hospitalizations and complications, as well as the number of deaths due to influenza, are significantly reduced.

Maintaining personal hygiene rules

Prevention of influenza also involves maintaining personal hygiene. It is very important to wash hands more often, sanitize furniture surfaces in your home as often as possible, and stay away from people who have the flu. As a last resort, wear a medical mask. But just change it every three hours, otherwise viruses and bacteria will attack you even more, having accumulated on this mask.

How is influenza transmitted?

Flu spreads from person to person by airborne droplets, that is, through sneezing, coughing, and also through handshakes. When you sneeze and cough, droplets of saliva scatter within a radius of two meters and infect everything around. The influenza virus enters the human body through respiratory tract and settles on the mucous membranes of the throat and nasal passages. Then it invades the body’s cells and forces them to produce similar viruses, and the cell itself dies.

At this time, the human body is saturated with toxins - waste products of viruses. This causes a person’s whole body to ache, headaches, and muscles of the whole body. The person becomes irritable, has increased weakness, may not get enough sleep, and the temperature rises significantly. These are all flu-like symptoms that go away within one to two weeks. If you are concerned about the prevention of influenza, then it is important for you to know that a patient with influenza is most contagious during the first three days, and children are most contagious two to three times longer - from seven to 10 days.

How long does the influenza virus live?

For those concerned about flu prevention, it is useful to know that the virus lives on surfaces that are not disinfected for two to eight hours. And then he dies. But the temperature required for its death is quite high - up to 100 degrees, that is, the boiling point. Therefore, it is advisable to wash the patient’s things and your own during the flu period in a very hot water. Good for killing the virus bactericidal agents– alcohol, iodine, soap (alkaline). Hydrogen peroxide is also very good.

Now many pharmacies and supermarkets sell bactericidal products for treating hands and surfaces. They are very good to take with you to places where it is not always possible to wash your hands. For example, on business trips. And the flu virus will be defeated by your simplest efforts.

So, to avoid complications due to the flu and the flu itself, it is very important not to sit idle. Preventing the flu can significantly reduce your risk of getting sick and save time that you would otherwise spend on treatment.

Important to know!

Flu, it would seem, is a common and not such a terrible disease. But we can’t even imagine all the consequences that occur in the body after the flu. For example, how does the flu affect the functioning of the brain and nervous system? Why after past influenza Are your kidneys and liver working worse? What and how changes in the body after the flu?

There is probably not a single person who has not suffered from colds at least once in their life, at least in childhood. Therefore, there is no person who would not be concerned about the question of what to take for a cold.

Colds may have different names, but they are based on one reason - infection of various parts of the body and, in particular, the upper respiratory tract, by pathogens. These microorganisms are divided into two main categories – bacteria and viruses.

Treatment of acute respiratory diseases It can be both symptomatic, aimed at alleviating the manifestations of the disease, and etiological, aimed at eliminating the root cause of the disease. Fortunately, for the treatment of diseases caused by bacteria, they have long been successfully used. antibacterial drugs or antibiotics. But in the case of diseases caused by another group of infectious agents - viruses, the situation is not so favorable. And there are several reasons for this.

Respiratory diseases caused by viruses

What acute respiratory diseases are caused by viruses? These include, first of all, influenza and ARVI.

The term ARVI (acute respiratory viral infection) refers to various infections caused by viruses that are not related to influenza. These viruses include:

• adenoviruses,
• rhinoviruses,
• parainfluenza viruses,
• coronaviruses,
• respiratory syncytial viruses.

Respiratory symptoms are also characteristic of some other viral diseases:

• measles,
• rubella,
• chicken pox,

However, they are not usually classified as viral respiratory diseases.

Symptoms of parainfluenza and ARVI

Symptoms of diseases caused by different types of viruses often differ little from each other. And it is usually possible to determine the type of disease only by identifying the type of pathogen, which is not always easy.

Typically, ARVI is characterized by symptoms such as cough, runny nose, high temperature (sometimes low-grade, below +38º C), sore throat, headaches, and frequent sneezing. Sometimes the symptoms may be accompanied by signs of intoxication - nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

Most experts are of the opinion that when treating acute respiratory viral infections in people with normal immunity and not a weakened body for some reason, no antiviral drugs are needed. These diseases, with the right approach to their treatment, go away on their own and do not cause any complications. Therefore, treatment of these diseases is mainly symptomatic. The only exception is syncytial infection, which can be fatal in infants.

Treatment for diseases such as ARVI comes down mainly to bed rest, creating normal conditions for recovery - the absence of drafts and hypothermia. It is also necessary to drink a lot of liquid, always warm, for example, tea with lemon. Taking vitamins and antioxidants also helps with healing. To treat a runny nose, you can use anti-inflammatory or clearing nose drops; to treat the bronchi and throat, you can use inhalations based on herbal infusions that relieve inflammation. Nutritious food is also important element therapy.

Photo: Nestor Rizhniak/Shutterstock.com

Flu and its characteristic symptoms

Symptoms of influenza are often different from those of other viral respiratory diseases. However, this difference may not always manifest itself. Often, in the case of high immunity or a weakened type of virus, the symptoms of influenza are practically no different from the symptoms of ARVI. And, nevertheless, there are several main signs that you should pay attention to.

First of all, most types of influenza are characterized by a very high temperature, which can rise to +39.5 – +40ºС. The temperature usually rises to high performance in a short period of time. Thus, if the temperature is initially low-grade, and then, after a couple of days, rises to high values, then this most likely does not mean the presence of influenza, but some kind of secondary infection such as pneumonia.

Also, with the flu there is such a characteristic symptom as subtle pain in the muscles of the body, especially in the limbs (aches). This symptom can be characteristic both of the early stage of the disease, appearing several hours before the temperature rises, and for the period when the temperature has already risen. Respiratory symptoms with influenza are usually erased compared to ARVI. In most cases, with the flu there is no runny nose, but a severe cough may be present.

Influenza, unlike ARVI, is dangerous due to its complications affecting other organs - the heart, kidneys, lungs, liver. A severe form of influenza is very dangerous - toxic flu, in which death from intoxication of the body is possible.

Influenza is usually transmitted by airborne droplets, from sick people to healthy people. The influenza virus is quite resistant to external influences and can survive for a long time. external environment. The incubation period of the disease usually ranges from several hours to several days.

Experts believe that influenza most often manifests itself at ambient temperatures ranging from –5ºС to +5ºС. At these temperatures, the virus can persist for a long time. In addition, similar temperature regime helps dry out the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract and makes them more susceptible to the virus.

There are several types of influenza virus. And not all drugs are able to affect all these types. Treatment of influenza is mainly symptomatic. Taking antiviral drugs for influenza is indicated in cases of severe disease, as well as in cases of weakened immunity. These can be both etiotropic drugs and drugs that stimulate the immune system. Thanks to their use, it is often possible to shorten the duration of the disease and avoid possible severe complications.

How does a viral disease develop?

Unlike diseases caused by bacteria, viruses that enter the body directly attack human cells. The virus is usually very simple. As a rule, it is a single DNA molecule, and sometimes a simpler RNA molecule containing genetic information. In addition, the virus also contains a shell of proteins. However, some types of viruses - viroids - may not have it either.

Viruses are able to integrate into the genetic apparatus of cells and reconfigure it to release their own copies. Viruses cannot reproduce without the help of cells from other organisms.

Structural features of viruses that cause ARVI and influenza

Most viruses included in this group, belong to the type of RNA viruses. The only exception is an adenovirus, which has a DNA molecule.

Influenza viruses are divided into three main serotypes - A, B, and C. Most often, diseases are caused by the first two types. The type C virus causes illness only in immunocompromised people, children and the elderly. There are no epidemics of diseases caused by this type of virus, while epidemics caused by viruses of types A and B occur very often - once every few years in a certain area.

The surface of the RNA molecule of the virus is covered with several protein molecules, among which neuraminidase should be highlighted. This enzyme facilitates the penetration of the virus into the cell and then ensures the release of new viral particles from it. Influenza viruses primarily infect epithelial cells lining the surface of the upper respiratory tract.

Of course, the immune system is not sitting idle either. Immune cells, having detected the presence of strangers, produce special substances - interferons, which suppress the activity of viruses and prevent their penetration into cells. In addition, special types of lymphocytes - T-killer cells and NK lymphocytes destroy cells affected by viruses.

Nevertheless, viral diseases, including those caused by influenza viruses, claim many lives every year.

The peculiarity of viruses is their increased ability to mutate. This leads to the fact that protein molecules on the surface of viruses can very quickly change their composition, and as a result, immune forces are not always able to recognize them in time as a previously encountered object.

Therefore, scientists have long wanted to develop agents that would be active against various viruses. However, such a task faces many difficulties. They consist, first of all, in the fact that viral particles are very small and have an extremely primitive structure, even compared to bacteria. This means that they have very few vulnerabilities.

However, some antiviral agents have been developed. In particular, many of them are active against viruses that cause ARVI and influenza.

Types of antiviral drugs

Antiviral agents aimed directly at combating viruses can be divided into four main groups:

• vaccines;
• immunostimulants and interferon inducers;
• drugs containing interferon;
• antiviral drugs direct action(etiotropic).

There are many antivirus products belonging to different groups and the most effective drug It is not easy to distinguish among them.

Antiviral vaccines

Vaccination was invented at the end of the 18th century. Over time, it began to be widely used as a prophylactic agent to combat various diseases, including viral ones.

The essence of vaccination is to give the body's immune system information about the infectious agent in advance. The fact is that the immune system often recognizes the danger too late, when the infection has already spread throughout the body. And if the immune system is configured in advance to fight the desired agent, then it will instantly enter into a fight with it and easily neutralize it.

When vaccinated against viruses, a vaccine is injected into the blood - a substance containing the protein shells of viruses, or somehow weakened viruses. These components are unable to cause disease, but are capable of training immune cells to fight invaders. Thus, if real viruses enter the body, then, as a rule, they are neutralized very quickly. Immunity obtained through vaccines can last for many years.

As for influenza, there are several types of viruses that cause this disease. There are vaccines for most of them.

Vaccines can be of several types. There are vaccines containing live but weakened viruses. There are also vaccines containing inactivated virus components. Typically, one vaccine contains material from several varieties of viruses, which is regularly updated in accordance with the mutations to which the substances that make up the shells of these infectious agents undergo.

Flu vaccination, first of all, should be given to people in certain risk groups:

• Age over 65 years;
• Having respiratory diseases;
• Taking drugs that suppress the immune system, cytostatics, corticosteroids;
• Patients with diabetes;
• Children;
• Women in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters of pregnancy.

Unlike influenza, vaccines for the prevention of acute respiratory viral infections at the moment does not exist.

Influvac A vaccine designed to protect the body from infection by influenza viruses. Contains proteins - hemagglutinin and neuraminidase, characteristic of two strains of influenza type A (H3N2 and H1N1) and one strain of type B. Each component is contained in an amount of 15 mg per 0.5 ml. Release form: injection suspension, equipped with disposable syringes. Indications: prevention of influenza. Contraindications: tendency to allergic reactions during injections, acute diseases. Application: The vaccine can be administered subcutaneously or intramuscularly. The standard dose is 0.5 ml for adults and children over 6 years of age, 0.25 ml for children under 6 years of age. For people who have a weakened immune system or have not previously been vaccinated, the vaccine is administered twice with a break of a month, in other cases - once. The procedure is recommended to be carried out in the fall.

Antiviral agents that enhance immunity

Any virus that enters the body encounters its protective forces - immunity. Human immunity is divided into two types: specific and nonspecific. Specific immunity is developed against a specific type of infectious agent, while nonspecific immunity has universal action and can be directed against any type of infection. Antiviral drugs based on enhancing immunity use its nonspecific variety.

Preparations with interferons

This class of antiviral agents contains interferons - special substances secreted immune cells to fight viruses. Typically, interferon in such antiviral drugs is obtained artificially using special bacteria. Interferon attaches to cell walls and prevents viruses from entering them. On the other hand, viruses are able to block the production of interferon from cells, thereby facilitating their penetration into them. Thus, drugs containing interferon are designed to compensate for the lack of natural interferon observed during viral infections.

Information about the effectiveness of antiviral drugs of this class is contradictory. Many people claim that it helped them, although the results clinical trials do not allow us to speak with confidence about these drugs as an effective remedy. In addition, they have many side effects. Among them, it is worth noting the high likelihood of allergic reactions.

List popular drugs this type includes Grippferon, Alfarona, Interferon, Viferon, Kipferon.

Viferon

The drug contains interferon type alpha 2b. Escherichia coli bacteria were used in the synthesis of this substance. The drug also contains vitamins C and E. The drug can be used as antiviral medicine. It is active against pathogens of major respiratory infections, as well as hepatitis and herpes viruses.

Kipferon

A drug for the treatment of influenza and ARVI. The medicine is available in the form of suppositories. Contains immunoglobulins and human leukocyte interferon. Fat and paraffin are used as additional components. The drug is active not only against viruses (ARVI, influenza and hepatitis viruses) but also against a number of bacterial infections, in particular chlamydia.

Grippferon

Available as a solution for nasal use, it contains human leukocyte interferon and has immunomodulatory properties. It also contains some excipients. Intended mainly for the treatment of viral infections of the upper respiratory tract.

Grippferon An immunomodulatory drug for the treatment of acute respiratory viral infections, also active against influenza viruses. Contains human interferon alpha-2b. Therapeutic effect due to the effect on the body’s cells, which become immune to the introduction of viral particles. Can be used to treat infants. Release form: bottles of 5 and 10 ml, equipped with a dropper. Indications: influenza and ARVI, treatment and prevention. Contraindications: severe allergic diseases. Application: The drug is instilled into each nasal passage. Dosage for treatment: up to one year – 1 drop 5 times a day; 1-3 years – 2 drops 3-4 times a day; 3-14 years – 2 drops 4-5 times a day; over 14 years old - 3 drops 5-6 times a day. When preventing a disease (in case of contact with a sick person or high probability infection) the dosage is similar to the dosage for treatment at the appropriate age, but instillation is performed only 2 times a day.

Antiviral immunostimulating agents

Unlike interferons, antiviral immunostimulating agents do not attack viruses directly, but stimulate the immune system to produce its own interferons. These are inexpensive but quite effective means. The advantage of this type of drugs, compared with drugs containing interferon, is that they are much less likely to cause side effects in the form of allergic reactions. Examples of such drugs are Ingavir, Kagocel, Cycloferon, Lavomax, Tsitovir. It is difficult to say for sure which of them is most effective for acute respiratory viral infections. They all differ somewhat in their effects and contraindications, and in order to know which one to choose, it is best to seek advice from a specialist.

The effectiveness of antiviral immunostimulating agents, judging by reviews, is quite high. However, many people who are passionate about such remedies do not think about how often they can drink them. Doctors warn about the harm that can result from uncontrolled use of immune stimulants. The fact is that with regular use of stimulants, the functioning of one’s own immunity occurs. The body gets used to the stimulation and is unable to respond to the infection on its own, which can cause complications infectious diseases. The second danger associated with immune stimulants is that immune cells can begin to attack the body's own tissues, which is the cause of autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, Sjögren's syndrome, lupus erythematosus, and some others.

Tsitovir

Contains bendazole, a substance that stimulates the formation of interferons. Other active substances are ascorbic acid and thymogen, which increase the body’s resistance to infection. Available in three main dosage forms- capsules, syrup and powder for preparing the solution. Can be used as a medicine to help against influenza and ARVI.

Kagocel

One of the best selling Russian market drugs. Developed in the late 1980s. in the Soviet Union. One of the main active ingredients is obtained from cotton and is a gossypol copolymer. Another component is cellulose glycolic acid. The combination of these components leads to increased secretion of interferon by immune cells. It should be noted that pure gossypol is known as a drug that negatively affects male spermatogenesis. And although the developers claim that this substance is in pure form the drug contains an insignificant amount, this circumstance makes us wary.

Amiksin

A drug that stimulates production various types interferons - leukocyte (type alpha), gamma, and fibroblast interferon. A powerful remedy that is active against various viruses, including viruses that cause ARVI, herpes and hepatitis. The drug was developed in the United States about half a century ago, but was soon banned there due to its side effects. In particular, it was found that the main component of the drug can cause damage to the retina. However, in the countries of the former USSR this drug is actively sold under various brand names.

Cycloferon

Currently, this is one of the most popular drugs from the class of immunostimulants on the market. The active substance is meglumine acridone acetate. The drug can be administered into the body parenterally or taken in tablet form. Judging by the reviews, the drug has a high effect. However, it is interesting to note that the main active ingredient was originally used in veterinary medicine. But just a few years after the start of its use in in this capacity the drug was registered as medicine for the treatment of infectious diseases in humans. At the same time, manufacturers recommend using the drug even for treating children over 4 years old.

Kagocel Antiviral tablets belonging to the class of interferon inducer drugs. Stimulates activity immune system directed against bacteria and viruses. Release form: tablets containing the active substance (kagocel) in a dosage of 12 mg, as well as calcium stearate, starch, lactose, povidone. Indications: treatment and prevention of influenza, ARVI, acute respiratory infections, as well as herpes simplex. Contraindications: pregnancy and lactation, age under 3 years. Side effects: allergic reactions are possible. Application: 2 tablets 3 times a day in the first two days of the disease, in the next two days - 1 tablet 3 times a day. The course of treatment is 4 days. Taking the drug is not associated with food intake.

Antiviral etiotropic drugs (direct-acting drugs)

This type of drug acts directly on influenza or ARVI viruses. In this case, mechanisms may be used that impede the replication of the virus or its penetration into cells. Some drugs may also have a mild stimulating effect on the immune system.

Amantadins

These are first-generation antiviral etiotropic drugs, otherwise called M2 channel blockers. The mechanism of their action is based on disruption of the functioning of certain enzymes that ensure the reproduction of the virus in the cell. The main drugs of the class are deytiforin, amantadine, midantan and rimantadine. Amantadines are also effective against some other types of viruses, such as adenoviruses and herpes viruses.

Remantadine

One of the first representatives of the group of direct-acting antiviral drugs. At the time of its introduction (early 1960s), it seemed like a real breakthrough in the fight against influenza. The medicine has shown its effectiveness in many clinical trials.

The drug was developed in the USA, but in the Soviet Union the pharmaceutical industry also quickly launched the production of this drug. With its help, it was possible to significantly reduce the time spent on treating patients with influenza, which resulted in significant cost savings throughout the Soviet economy.

However, it soon became clear that influenza viruses quickly developed resistance to this drug and mutated in such a way that they became practically invulnerable to it. Recent studies show that more than 90% of influenza viruses are resistant to rimantadine, which makes it practically useless in the treatment of this disease.

In addition, the drug was initially active only against influenza virus type A and did not affect type B viruses. Thus, rimantadine in terms of treating influenza today is of rather historical interest. However, this medicine cannot be called completely useless, since it turned out that it is effective against the tick-borne encephalitis virus.

Remantadine is available in two main dosage forms - 50 mg tablets and syrup. The standard duration of treatment is 5 days, under certain conditions this time can be extended to two weeks.

It may seem that antibiotics are universal remedy, which can cope with almost any misfortune (especially if we're talking about about a cold). This opinion is indeed widespread and people often self-prescribe antibiotics at the first sign of illness. Are antibiotics necessary for the flu or are they completely useless?

Do antibiotics treat influenza?

Neuramidase inhibitors

These are more modern and efficient antiviral drugs direct action. Their antiviral mechanism is based on blocking the enzyme due to which the virus leaves the infected cell and also penetrates healthy cells. Since the virus cannot penetrate the cell, it is easily destroyed by the body’s immune forces. Today, drugs in this group are most often used among direct-acting viral etiotropic drugs intended to combat influenza.

The main representatives of the class are oseltamivir, marketed under the brand name Tamiflu, and the drug Relenza (zanamivir). There is also a new generation drug - Peramivir (Rapivab), which has shown high effectiveness against uncomplicated influenza. This drug is intended primarily for parenteral administration.

However, it is worth noting that drugs in this group have a number of disadvantages. In the case of mild, uncomplicated flu, their effectiveness is usually relatively low, but the number of side effects is quite high. Neuramydiase inhibitors are also quite toxic. The incidence of side effects when taking them is 1.5%. Medicines are prescribed with caution to patients with a tendency to bronchospasm. In addition, they cannot be classified as cheap drugs.

Tamiflu

This drug was developed in the USA in the late 1980s. Initially it was planned to be used in the fight against the AIDS virus, but then it turned out that oseltamivir is not dangerous to this virus. However, instead, the drug was found to be active against influenza types A and B. The drug is most effective in severe forms of influenza due to its ability to suppress the formation of cytokines and prevent inflammation and an excessive immune response in the form of a cytokine storm. Today, this drug probably leads the rating in terms of effectiveness among other etiotropic drugs.

When choosing a dosage, you should take into account the patient’s condition, the nature of the disease, and the presence of chronic diseases. The standard duration of treatment is 5 days, dosage is 75-150 mg.

However, it is worth noting that the drug does not act against ARVI pathogens. In addition, an overdose of the drug and its uncontrolled use, including in for preventive purposes can lead to very serious health consequences, such as mental disorders.

Relenza

Like Tamiflu, it belongs to the group of neuramidase inhibitors. It is an effective antiviral drug, structural analogue sialic acid. Unlike oseltamivir, this flu medicine is not produced in tablets, but in special blisters intended for use in an inhaler - a diskhaler. This method allows you to deliver the drug directly to the respiratory tract affected by the virus and ensure the most effective effect of the drug on the infectious agent.

Relenza Etiotropic antiviral agent. Active against influenza types A and B. The active substance is zanamivir, which belongs to the category of neuramidase inhibitors. Release form: powder for inhalation, as well as a special device for inhalation - diskhaler. One dose contains 5 mg active substance. Indications: treatment and prevention of viruses type A and B in adults and children. Contraindications: use the drug with caution in patients prone to bronchospasms. Application: Diskhaler is used for inhalation. Blisters with the drug are inserted into a special disk on the disc haler. Then the blister is punctured, after which the drug can be inhaled through the mouthpiece.

Tamiflu Etiotropic antiviral drug. Designed to destroy influenza viruses types A and B. The active ingredient is oseltamivir. Release form: Gelatin capsules with a dosage of 30, 45 and 75 mg, as well as powder for the preparation of a suspension in 30 g bottles. Indications: prevention and treatment of influenza. The drug is recommended for use starting from the age of 1 year. In some cases (during disease pandemics), treatment of children from 6 months is allowed. Contraindications: age up to 6 months, chronic renal failure, low creatinine clearance (less than 10 ml/min). Side effects: headaches, insomnia, convulsions, dizziness, weakness, cough, nausea. Application: It is better to take the drug with food, although this is not a strict recommendation. Children over 13 years of age and adults are prescribed 75 mg 2 times a day. The course of treatment is 5 days. The daily dosage for children under 12 years of age depends on body weight: More than 40 kg – 150 mg; 23-40 kg – 120 mg; 15-23 kg – 90 mg; less than 15 kg – 60 mg. The daily dose must be divided into two doses.

Arbidol

A domestic drug that was developed back in the 1980s. The active substance is umifenovir. Unlike neuraminidase inhibitors, the action of umifenovir is aimed at inhibiting another viral protein, hemagglutinin. However, this method also prevents the virus from entering cells. In addition, the drug is capable of providing moderate stimulation of the body's immune forces. Arbidol can also treat not only the flu, but also ARVI. A structural analogue is produced in Belarus this drug- Arpetol.

Reviews about the drug are mostly positive. However, one cannot help but be alarmed by the fact that the only serious study of the effectiveness of the drug was sponsored by its manufacturer, the Pharmstandard company. Therefore, today Arbidol cannot be unambiguously classified as a drug with proven effectiveness.

Arbidol Antiviral drug. The active ingredient is umifenovir. Combines etiotropic action and stimulation of the immune system. Active against influenza types A and B, coronaviruses that cause severe acute respiratory syndrome(TORSO). Release form: Capsules containing 50 mg of umifenovir. Indications: Prevention and treatment of influenza, ARVI, SARS. Contraindications: age up to 3 years, individual intolerance components of the drug. Side effects: allergic reactions Application: The drug is taken before meals. Dosage depends on age: Adults and children over 12 years old – 200 mg; 6-12 years – 100 mg; 3-6 years – 50 mg. When preventing influenza and ARVI during epidemics, the indicated doses are taken 2 times a week. The maximum duration of the course of prophylaxis is weeks. When treating influenza and ARVI, the indicated doses are taken 4 times a day. The course of treatment is 5 days.

Rebetol

This drug is not designed to fight influenza viruses, but to fight other viruses, such as rhinosyncytial virus. This infection most often occurs in children, in whom it occurs in a complex form. However, it can also be used as an anti-influenza drug, although with less effect. In addition, the drug can be used in the treatment of herpes. For acute respiratory viral infections, the drug is administered to the site of inflammation using inhalation. Other names of the drug are Virazol and Ribavirin. The drug is contraindicated during pregnancy.

Symptomatic drugs

Contrary to popular belief, these drugs are not antiviral. They are intended only to relieve the unpleasant symptoms of influenza and ARVI - pain and fever. However, this does not deny the fact that symptomatic medications are a good remedy for colds. They usually contain anti-inflammatory, painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs - paracetamol, acetylsalicylic acid, ibuprofen, sometimes antioxidants - ascorbic acid, less often - antihistamines and vasoconstrictors, such as phenylephinephrine. Thus, they have no effect on influenza or ARVI viruses. Although the names of many such drugs can mislead the inexperienced person. For example, symptomatic remedy Theraflu can be confused with the etiotropic drug Tamiflu.

There are also combination drugs, including etiotropic and symptomatic drugs - for example, Anvivir, containing rimantadine and paracetamol.

It should be noted that the simultaneous prescription of interferon inducers and antipyretics, which is practiced by some doctors, does not make much sense. Indeed, when the temperature rises, on the contrary, there is an increase in the production of interferon, and an artificial decrease in temperature reduces this process to nothing.

Homeopathic remedies

It is worth noting such a type of medicine as homeopathic remedies for the treatment of viral diseases of the upper respiratory tract. There are fierce debates around homeopathy; it has both supporters and opponents. However, it is indisputable that almost all homeopathic medicines do not directly affect viruses, and therefore it is very difficult to classify them as antiviral. For example, such a popular French anti-flu drug as Oscillococcinum contains as active component Muscovy duck liver components. In this case, it is not entirely clear on what basis such a component was classified as an effective remedy against influenza and colds. Nevertheless, the drug is actively sold and enjoys traditional popularity, including in our country. Needless to say, this kind of drugs is an obvious example of the use by clever businessmen of the self-hypnosis effect (placebo effect) characteristic of people.

Antiviral drugs for influenza and ARVI - benefit or harm?

In our country, the incidence of respiratory diseases is especially high, given the cold climate, long winter and off-season. All this creates a demand for drugs for colds and flu. Of course, pharmaceutical manufacturers cannot ignore such a potentially huge market. And they fill it with drugs of sometimes dubious quality and dubious effectiveness, promoting them with the help of aggressive advertising, claiming that the best drug today is this particular drug and no other. Currently, a person who comes to a pharmacy, as a rule, has no difficulty in choosing antiviral drugs. There are a lot of them, for every taste, and among them there are many drugs that are affordable. But, as you know, free cheese only comes in a mousetrap.

As shown above, there are no ideal antiviral drugs. Interferon drugs have many side effects, and of the kind that can appear after a long time. Nowadays, more and more information is accumulating that their regular use increases the risk of autoimmune diseases - lupus erythematosus, Sjögren's syndrome, psoriasis, insulin-dependent diabetes and even oncological diseases. Particular caution should be exercised by those patients who have relatives suffering from autoimmune diseases. Also, drugs of this type should be used with caution when treating children.

In addition, drugs containing interferon can cause severe allergic reactions. In addition, their effectiveness is highly questionable. In principle, the same can be said about antiviral immunostimulants. It is worth noting that in most Western countries similar drugs are practically not used. The concept of treatment of respiratory diseases widespread there recognizes only etiotropic or symptomatic treatment, and antiviral immunomodulators are prescribed to patients only in exceptional cases.

As for etiotropic drugs, they also cannot be called an ideal choice. Although they have a much greater evidence base, their effectiveness is often greatly exaggerated due to advertising by manufacturers. In addition, such old drugs as rimantadine have already lost a significant share of their effectiveness due to the formation of a huge number of virus strains resistant to their action.

Neuramidase inhibitors appear to be most effective. However, they are highly toxic and have a limited spectrum of action, covering only influenza viruses. Therefore, given that they are most effective in the first days after the onset of the disease, they can be used only when there is complete confidence that the disease is caused by the influenza virus and not by something else. And needless to say, at the onset of the disease it is usually not possible to determine the type of pathogen. Otherwise, using these drugs will simply be a waste of money. By the way, this type of drug cannot be called cheap.

The only way to combat viral infections with antiviral drugs that has minimal side effects is vaccination. However, it cannot be considered a panacea. It has some limitations, since there are a huge number of flu strains and it is absolutely impossible to come up with a vaccine that would be effective against everyone. To some extent, however, this is compensated by the fact that the biological material contained in vaccines is constantly updated.

Therefore, you should think about whether it is worth using this kind of treatment at all, which can bring more problems than the disease itself. It should be noted that most people underestimate the strength of their own immunity. Compliance simple rules – bed rest, drinking plenty of warm drinks, taking vitamins and proper diet in most cases, they get a person back on his feet in about the same time as treatment with newfangled antiviral drugs. Their use may still be justified for influenza with high fever, but the use of the same immunomodulators in the treatment of ARVI is not recommended at all.

Also, do not overuse symptomatic remedies. After all, the same high temperature is defensive reaction body to invasion by viruses and bacteria. At high temperatures, the production of interferons increases, making the body's cells immune to viral infection. By artificially lowering the temperature, we actually prevent the body from fighting infection. Therefore, you should not lower the temperature, at least if it does not cross the critical mark of +39º degrees.

The situation is further complicated by the peculiarities of our mentality. It is no secret that many people, faced with acute respiratory infections and the flu, do not strive to be cured, but simply to quickly return to their normal lives, go to work, etc. This not only leads to the fact that everyone around them becomes infected, but also to the fact that as a result the person does not treat the disease, which becomes chronic. A cold carried on the legs has a much more harmful influence on the body than refusing to take antiviral drugs.

However, most people understand that this behavior is not correct, but resort to another, seemingly more correct, remedy - swallowing packs of antiviral agents. And at the same time, it seems that he is really getting better, but at the same time he is destroying his body. Meanwhile, it’s worth thinking about the fact that health is much more valuable than a couple of extra days spent on sick leave.

Of course, these tips are suitable for people with healthy immune systems. However, not everyone can boast of it. Nowadays there are many people whose immunity is weakened. Their disease may drag on, which ultimately threatens various complications. In this case, taking antiviral tablets is justified. However, the fact of having a weakened immune system should be established not on the basis of individual sensations - I have a runny nose every month, which means I need to buy drugs with interferons or immunomodulators, but on the basis of thorough research into the state of the immune system. The selection of antiviral drugs must also be careful. The doctor should advise which one is best suited in a particular case. The drug must be used in accordance with its recommendations and instructions.

And, of course, treatment with these drugs should not be perceived as natural. Having been cured once with the help of antiviral drugs, you should not rely on the fact that miracle drugs will help get rid of the disease the next time. Measures should be taken to strengthen the immune system. There are many natural ways to do this - hardening, regular walks on fresh air, proper nutrition and daily routine, good rest, classes physical culture and sports.

Also, measures aimed at preventing diseases should not be ignored. It should be borne in mind that influenza and ARVI viruses are quite resistant to unfavorable factors and can exist in the external environment for a long time. Therefore, it is necessary to regularly hygiene procedures, especially during periods of increased morbidity - regularly rinse your mouth and rinse your nasal cavity, avoid communicating with patients with respiratory diseases. Chronic diseases should also be treated promptly, since it is well known that viruses multiply most intensively in the body, weakened by the fight against chronic diseases. And, of course, it’s worth getting rid of bad habits. After all, it is well known that smoking significantly weakens the immune forces of the tissues of the upper respiratory tract, which leads to increased vulnerability to infectious diseases, including viral ones.

British doctors have made a funny video about how to wash your hands properly. Video: washyourhands.org.uk

How to wash your hands correctly

It is also necessary to consider that starting antiviral therapy medications are necessary as early as possible, at the first signs of the disease. Otherwise, the treatment will not be effective.

In addition, before starting treatment with antiviral drugs, you should make sure that the respiratory disease is actually caused by viruses and not bacteria. Otherwise antiviral therapy will be completely useless.

Popular antivirus products, type

Preparation	Type
Alfarona	interferon drug
Amiksin	immunostimulant
Arbidol	etiotropic drug
Vaxigrip	vaccine
Viferon	interferon drug
Grippferon	interferon drug
Ingavirin	immunostimulant
Interferon	interferon drug
Influvac	vaccine
Kagocel	immunostimulant
Kipferon	interferon drug
Lavomax	immunostimulant
Oscillococcinum	homeopathic remedy
Relenza	etiotropic drug
Rimantadine	etiotropic drug
Tiloram	immunostimulant
Tamiflu	etiotropic drug
Cycloferon	immunostimulant
Tsitovir	immunostimulant

According to the forecast of epidemiologists, in the coming year the incidence rate of seasonal influenza, acute respiratory viral infections, aggressive viral infections and other modifications of colds will not exceed the average statistical norms. However, this does not mean that the population can forget about caution and completely relax. Rather, on the contrary, adults and children should focus on preventing the 2016-2017 flu and actively strengthening the immune system.

Those who, for personal reasons, do not have the opportunity to be vaccinated, will need to contact a specialized doctor and get from him a list of tablets and medications that will help create a reliable barrier to the penetration of bacteria in the body and protect against influenza.

Prevention of influenza - effective medications and pills for viral infections

To prevent influenza and seasonal infections, doctors recommend taking modern medicines and tablets aimed at effective fight with viruses and strengthening the human immune system. The most effective and relevant medications against influenza include:

• Arbidol– a powerful antiviral medicine with active immunostimulating and antioxidant effects. It is used to prevent influenza before and during seasonal epidemics. On cellular level protects the body from the penetration and spread of disease carriers. Makes a person immune to most infections, viruses and pathogenic microorganisms. Doctors prescribe the medicine at the primary stage of acute respiratory illnesses, as it quickly neutralizes the main symptoms and reduces to almost zero the risk of complications after the flu and does not allow the development of a bacterial infection.
• Remantadine– an excellent barrier medicine suitable for adults and children over 7 years of age. It is drunk in the first 2-3 days of the onset of influenza. The dosage for each individual is specified by the attending physician. Calculations are made based on the patient's body weight. As a preventive measure, the drug is indicated for those who are in direct contact with flu patients or work in the service sector and establishments catering. However, when taking it, you should remember that the medicine has a negative effect on the liver.
• Immunal– an effective preventive and therapeutic agent plant origin. Contains healthy natural juice of the rudbeckia plant, chicorienic acid and its esters, hydrophilic polysaccharides and alkylamides. The action of the drug stimulates the activation of bone marrow hematopoiesis, reduces the duration of influenza disease by 1-1.5 days and reduces the risk of severe post-morbid complications by more than 3 times. It is well tolerated by humans and does not cause any side effects.
• Ingavirin– a strong preventive and therapeutic agent with antiviral, anti-inflammatory and immunostimulating effects. Suppresses the replication of pathogenic viruses and blocks their integration into the nucleus. Thanks to this, the reproduction of influenza pathogens stops and the cells become invulnerable to viral effects. It penetrates very quickly into the deep layers of the body and reaches maximum concentration in the blood just half an hour after taking the capsule. The medicine is completely eliminated from the body within 1 day.
• Tamiflu– affects viral cells and slows down their growth, thus speeding up the patient’s recovery process. Fights all the most common strains of influenza A, including swine and hong kong flu. It is taken for preliminary prevention and treatment when the first symptoms of the disease appear. Suitable for all patients, except pregnant and breastfeeding patients.

Prevention of ARVI - medications and health promotion activities for adults and children

To strengthen the immune system and prevent ARVI, influenza and the most common seasonal colds, anti-inflammatory drugs are used, aimed at creating some kind of barrier in the body that prevents influenza and ARVI viruses from penetrating cells and causing disease.

• Amiksin– works on the basis of an active substance called tiloron. Quickly suppresses many types of influenza and ARVI viruses and prevents their reproduction in the body of adults and children. Stimulates the active production of interferon, enhances the formation of antibodies and significantly reduces the degree of immunosuppression. Suitable for disease prevention and effective treatment viral diseases in different stages(from mild primary to protracted condition, turning into a chronicle).
• Gerimaks– an active mineral and vitamin complex based on standardized ginseng extract. Saturates the bodies of adults and children with everything necessary substances. Increases the resistance of the immune system to viral attacks of influenza or ARVI, increases the level of performance and brain activity, helps quick recovery vitality after long, serious illnesses. Has virtually no side effects, but when used in large doses may provoke attacks of insomnia.
• Kagocel– an effective medicine to combat influenza viruses and all kinds of infections. Takes adults and children under reliable protection even at the stage primary prevention and prevents microbes from entering cells and multiplying. Activates the production of natural interferon in the body.
• Oxolinic ointment– suitable for children and adults (including pregnant women). Serves as an excellent barrier to the penetration of influenza viruses of any modification. For prevention, it is used to lubricate the nasal mucosa twice a day for a month. The active substance contained in the composition inhibits the reproduction of viruses that have already entered cells and reliably blocks the path of new ones.
• Aflubin– homeopathic medicine with broad complex action (prevention, treatment) for adults and children. Fights influenza, acute respiratory viral infections and the main types of seasonal colds. Reduces activity inflammatory processes, has an antipyretic effect, relieves general pain in the body, restores immunity and detoxifies internal systems. Activates nonspecific protective factors of the body and suppresses the reproduction of influenza pathogens. Combines well with any other drugs. Has no negative side effects except increased salivation in extremely rare cases.

Flu 2016-2017 – universal preventive measures

Preventive measures to help fight the 2016-2017 flu mainly come down to following the rules of personal hygiene. During the peak of the epidemic, doctors advise avoiding visiting crowded places with large numbers of people, avoiding contact with people infected with influenza if possible, regularly washing your hands and wiping them with antibacterial wet wipes, and be sure to use personal protective masks, especially when in public transport or other closed, poorly ventilated areas, carry out hardening procedures, take vitamins and immunomodulating medications, drink plenty of fluids, eat right, do exercises daily or walk in the fresh air. These simple techniques will strengthen the body and make it virtually invulnerable to germs and viral infections that spread ARVI and influenza.

Prevention of influenza during pregnancy and breastfeeding

During pregnancy and breastfeeding female body especially vulnerable and can become “easy prey” for all kinds of viral infections, microbes and other pathogens. However, doctors categorically do not advise pregnant women to get vaccinated or take medications traditionally used to combat seasonal influenza and its strains. The list of drugs prohibited for pregnant women includes the most effective anti-inflammatory drugs, such as Tomiflu, Kagocel, remantodine, etc.

Pregnant women and nursing mothers are recommended to use folk remedies for the prevention and treatment of ailments (tea with raspberries and lemon, hot drinks based on medicinal herbs and natural juices, onions, garlic, rosehip syrup). In addition, it is very desirable to minimize visits to public places, leave home only wearing a personal mask and under no circumstances come into contact with sick people.

Medicines for influenza and ARVI for pregnant women

Pregnant and nursing mothers are allowed to use the following preventive and therapeutic medications:

• Gripferon– non-toxic and absolutely safe medicine, blocking the proliferation of viruses that enter the body through the respiratory tract. It comes in the form of drops and acts very quickly. Improvement in well-being is observed the very next day after the first use. It is not addictive in pregnant women and exhibits excellent compatibility with other drugs.
• Interferon– is produced in the form of ointments or suppositories and is considered the most optimal immunomodulating, anti-inflammatory, antiviral and antiproliferative medicine for pregnant women. Protects the body from infection and prevents viruses from infecting internal cells. Works like effective preventative all types of colds. It is prescribed for treatment at the very first stage, when a runny nose and cough are just beginning. Recommended for use after 28 weeks of pregnancy.
• Viferon– is available in the form of suppositories and is suitable not only for prevention, but also for use when the first signs of the disease appear (runny nose, cough, etc.) in pregnant women. The medicine quickly reduces even very high temperature and destroys irritating bacteria. Side effects when taking the drug, it is not observed, however, it is better to entrust the determination of the dose volume suitable for treatment to a specialist, and subsequently do not exceed it.

Prevention of influenza in preschool educational institutions - useful information for parents

Children are much more susceptible to all types of diseases, including influenza and acute respiratory viral infections, so doctors ask adults to be very attentive and if they have a cough, slight runny nose or other manifestations of a cold, immediately take the child to the clinic to see a specialist. The doctor will take care of everything necessary tests and based on this information will write out little patient effective medicines and tablets to combat viral infections. If the baby is healthy, but the risk of infection still exists, you should focus on prevention and intensively strengthen the immune system.

First of all, adults need to limit the baby’s contact with people with the flu. From visiting kindergarten or you shouldn’t refuse school right away. The preschool educational institution closely monitors the epidemiological situation and always organizes vaccinations for employees of child care institutions in a timely manner. The premises are well ventilated every day, wet cleaning is carried out, interior items are treated with a bactericidal lamp, and the health level of staff and students is constantly monitored. In addition, thematic meetings and extracurricular activities are held with adults, where doctors explain how the 2016-2017 influenza should be prevented and what adults and children should do to protect the body from infection.

For most of us, winter is the most awaited time. Many are waiting for her to enjoy traditional activities - skiing and sledding. But not everyone shares this point of view. There are also those who are not very happy about the coming of winter. After all, this is the most favorable time in order to catch the flu virus and other colds. Fortunately, people have long learned to resist diseases and fight them effectively.

If you do not want to experience the unpleasant symptoms of the flu, then you should not wait to become infected. Long before the arrival of winter, start spending preventive measures, which will help boost your immunity and prevent viruses from putting you to bed.

In most patients who have a cold, cough, runny nose, headaches and other characteristic symptoms of this disease occur due to weakened immunity. When the body’s own defenses are not enough, nothing can stop the infection from carrying out its active activity in the human body and causing various viral diseases. To protect yourself from flu and colds, experts advise taking the following medications.

List of drugs

To protect themselves from the dangers of viruses and bacteria, many people have to be very careful when choosing medications. But this problem can be easily solved if you seek advice from doctors who are well familiar with the modern range of medications for the prevention of influenza and colds, and their effects on the body.

This medicine is intended for surgical treatment Acute respiratory infections, acute respiratory viral infections and other colds, as well as their warnings. It can also be included in complex therapy certain infectious diseases - for example, rubella, chickenpox and others.

Amizon acts as an active component in the drug. Instructions for use contain instructions that this product should not be given to children under 6 years of age.

In most cases, one package, which contains 20 tablets, is enough to complete a full course. This medicine against flu and colds is popular not only because affordable price, but also a wide spectrum of action.

The drug Arbidol

You can take this to prevent flu and colds effective remedy, like Arbidol. This medicine is effective with deal with influenza A and B viruses, and also acute respiratory viral infection. It is ideal as a means of prevention. They can treat not only colds, but also complications arising from them. Quite often doctors include Arbidol in the composition complex treatment diseases such as recurrent herpes, chronic bronchitis and pneumonia. The drug can be prescribed for treatment children over 2 years of age.

Medicine Remantadine

The drug can become an alternative to the above-mentioned drugs both for treatment and for prevention ARI, ARVI, flu and colds. It can be given to children, but only to those who have reached age 7 years.

So that the product has maximum therapeutic effect, it should be taken according to the following scheme:

• on the first day - 2 capsules 3 times a day;
• on the second and third days - 2 capsules 2 times a day;
• on the fourth and fifth days - 2 pills once a day.

For preventive purposes, the drug is taken in a course of 10 days. In this case, the dosage of the medicine will be one tablet per day.

Drug Anaferon

For prevention of flu and colds You can use drugs from the homeopathic group. One of known means The medicine of this class is Anaferon. It is often included in the complex treatment of diseases such as ARVI and influenza.

It can be given to children aged from 6 months. Take Anaferon during the first two hours with an interval of 30 minutes between doses. During this period, the dosage is determined as 1 tablet 3 times a day. Subsequently, the dosage regimen is not changed and is maintained until complete recovery. If the remedy was chosen for preventive purposes, then it must be taken 1 tablet 1 time per day for 1-3 months.

Treatment and prevention of acute respiratory infections and influenza

Every parent is happy when he sees his child cheerful and joyful. But babies’ immunity is not strong enough, so sometimes they get sick.

It is best not to wait for illness and to help the body in advance so that it can give a worthy rebuff to viruses. Therefore, the main recommendation that pediatricians give to parents is to carry out activities that will help increase the child’s immunity.

It is for this purpose that doctors often prescribe drugs to children. Grippferon And . They ideally cope with the task of preventing acute respiratory infections in children. For newborns up to 6 months, the medicine is instilled into the nose twice a day, one drop.

If you need to strengthen the immunity of a child over 6 months of age, then in this case you can use the drug. Before use, the pills must be dissolved in a spoon. warm water. In addition to the above-mentioned medications, there are other quite effective medications that can protect children's body from flu and colds. But you must not forget that self-medication may not always lead to positive results. Therefore, in order not to risk the health of your child, be sure to ask your doctor about the correct use of the drug you have chosen.

Medicine Viferon: suppositories and ointments

It belongs to the group of modern antiviral drugs that, when used, have an immunomodulatory effect on the body. It is often prescribed to newborns and premature babies. The drug is very effective as a means of preventing acute respiratory infections, other infectious and inflammatory diseases, influenza, as well as complications caused by bacterial infections.

Viferon in the form of suppositories is used rectally for a course of 5 days. In this case, the child needs to administer each suppository at intervals of 12 hours. It is advisable to begin treatment with this drug as soon as the first symptoms of the disease appear.

Viferon in ointment form is suitable for use as a means of preventing colds and flu for children over 1 year old. They lubricate the nasal mucosa three to four times a day using a cotton swab.

Medicine Anaferon for children

Enough difficult situation are parents of children under 1 year of age. It is not so easy for them to choose safe and effective medications for the prevention of colds, acute respiratory infections and flu. However, there are medications that can satisfy them. One of them is the drug Anaferon, which can be used for the treatment and prevention of diseases in children starting from 1 month.

This is one of the popular antiviral drugs that has an immunomodulatory effect on the children's body. It is perfect as a medicine for the surgical treatment of colds, acute respiratory infections and flu, as well as a prophylactic agent.

In pharmacies, Anaferon is offered in the form of tablets, which must be dissolved in boiled water before taking. Older children can be given Anaferon tablets in their pure form, but they should not swallow them, but dissolve them.

Oxolinic ointment

With this drug and its therapeutic effect The doctors know them well. That's why they've been prescribing it for young children for many years. This ointment is highly safe for health and is therefore suitable for the prevention of acute respiratory infections, colds and flu in newborns. However, you can start using it only for children who are over 2 months.

Before use, you should prepare a cotton swab, apply the medicine to it, and use it to treat the baby’s nasal mucosa. The drug can be used only for prevention. It is not suitable for the surgical treatment of colds and flu.

Drug Aflubin

The medicine belongs to the group of homeopathic medicines that, when used, quickly relieve symptoms of colds and flu. This is a universal remedy that can be used at any age. But you should always read the instructions before use, and then strictly follow the dosages indicated in it.

Due to the fact that the medicine does not completely good taste, children may not like it. Therefore, before use, it can be diluted with tea or water.

Aflubin is a medicine that has wide range actions. When taken, it has antipyretic, detoxification, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. It is recommended to start taking Aflubin at the first appearance of cold symptoms.

Interferon drug

In pharmacies this drug is offered in the form of ampoules. It is practically no different from the above-mentioned means for the prevention of acute respiratory infections, acute respiratory viral infections, influenza and colds in children. Therefore, it can be used from birth.

For better absorption, it must be administered into the child’s body in the form of a solution. To do this, take the ampoule, open it, and then pour the contents into a glass containing 2 ml of chilled boiled water. The resulting mixture must be injected into the baby's nose.

Conclusion

Flu and colds are the most common and at the same time unpleasant diseases, which both adults and children are equally at risk of encountering. Most known methods, unfortunately, do not allow one to avoid infection with these diseases. Therefore, many of us turn to doctors for advice, and they prescribe well-proven medications.

Today you can find a lot of such drugs in pharmacies, and among them there are those that can be used for acute respiratory infections in both adults and children. However, you should always read the instructions before use, since some medications may have age restrictions.

Attention, TODAY only!

In autumn - winter period The issue of preventing colds in adults and children is acute. Prevention of influenza and ARVI is aimed at strengthening the body's own defenses. One of the methods of combating cold viruses in a child is flu vaccination. It should be noted that flu vaccinations are approved for the prevention of children from 6 months.

Among the “popular” colds, acute respiratory viral infections and influenza should be noted. If respiratory diseases, when a virus enters the body, can only unsettle a person for a while, then the influenza virus leads to negative consequences of its presence in the body. Against the background of general malaise, it can cause the following complications, the incorrect and untimely treatment of which can lead to death:

• the development of diseases of the respiratory system in a child, including bronchitis and pneumonia;
• damage to the cardiovascular system;
• inflammatory processes in the kidneys;
• cerebral edema;
• complication and activation of chronic diseases existing today.

The influenza virus can cause complications at work internal organs and all body systems.

Symptoms of colds

Flu and ARVI belong to the same group of colds and have similar symptoms, which manifests itself:

At the slightest suspicion that a child has a disease, you should consult a doctor for a prescription. necessary treatment. Many drugs used to treat ARVI are used to prevent colds.

Risk group

People with weakened immune systems and chronic diseases are susceptible to colds. There are several categories of people who, due to physical features, are easily influenced by viruses:

• age category over 65 years;
• children due to the underdevelopment of their immune system;
• people with chronic diseases;
• patients diagnosed with kidney and genitourinary diseases;
• people with diseases of the cardiovascular system;
• patients with immunodeficiency conditions;
• pregnant and lactating women due to increased stress on the body.

The risk group should also include people who, due to professional activity, must work in crowded places. These are educators and teachers, medical staff, cultural figures, as well as trade workers. This also includes service personnel.

General preventive measures

Prevention of influenza and ARVI involves integrated approach. It should be noted the importance of hardening procedures for the child, taking immunostimulating vitamin preparations, performing simple physical exercise, compliance with general recommendations. The same prevention of ARVI and influenza is recommended for use in children, starting from a young age.

General strengthening measures for the prevention of ARVI

Important How to prevent influenza and ARVI have methods that strengthen the body’s own strength. This category of preventive techniques can include hardening procedures, means traditional medicine, activation of local immunity. You can choose a simple set of physical exercises for your child that will help maintain a healthy lifestyle. The quality of your sleep is important. It is necessary to ensure comfortable conditions so that the child's sleep is sound and calm.

Hardening the body as a prevention of respiratory diseases:

• rubbing, contrast shower with a gradual increase in the water temperature difference;
• foot massage - there are points on the feet, stimulation and massage of which activates the protective properties of the child’s body, thereby increasing immunity in general;
• walking barefoot is also a type of massage: for these purposes, you can purchase massage mats or make them together with your child from scrap materials;
• stay in the fresh air: outdoor games, hiking- also a prophylactic against colds;
• annual vacation at sea for 10 - 14 days: abrupt change climatic conditions stimulates the body's immune system;
• A child’s diet also plays an important role in the prevention of influenza and respiratory diseases: the consumption of food of plant origin should be increased;
• as a preventive measure, you need to instill a few drops into each nasal passage of the child saline solution or lubricate the mucous membrane with oxolinic ointment.

Traditional methods of preventing colds

Among the folk methods of preventing ARVI and influenza, garlic and onions should be noted. In addition to the fact that they improve the taste of any dish, onions and garlic increase the body's own immunity. The phytoncides contained in their composition are known for their properties to disinfect most viruses and bacteria. If infection with colds has already occurred, then the medicine from the garden, when consumed as food, shortens the time of illness. Pieces of garlic and onion, placed on plates and placed in several places in the room, have proven themselves well as a preventive measure against the virus. You can also use crushed natural phytoncides in the form of pendants. You will need a container from a Kinders Surprise toy. You need to make holes all over the surface of the egg and tie a string. Place chopped onion or garlic inside and wear a “pendant” around your neck as a means of prevention.

Don’t forget about vitamin C, which is popular in activating immune properties the child’s body in the fight against influenza and ARVI viruses. IN in kind it is present in rose hips, lingonberries, and cranberries. Black currant berries are rich in this vitamin. Not least in terms of vitamin C content is lemon. All these fruits and berries can be consumed both in their natural form and as fruit drinks, compotes, and juices. Frozen berries have also not lost their richness and can be used as a remedy for influenza and ARVI.

To prevent ARVI, you can eat onion pieces watered lemon juice. Even children like this preventive remedy, since the bitterness of onions and the sourness of lemon mask each other, giving the “dish” a unique taste.

Honey and bee products are also excellent prophylactic agents in the fight against influenza and ARVI viruses. It is necessary to take into account that this category of folk remedies for preventing illness very often acts as a strong allergen.

Immunostimulants

The pharmaceutical market is ready to offer a large selection of medicines to maintain and increase the body's immune strength. It is worth noting drugs containing interferon, antiviral drugs, multivitamin complexes, bacterial lysates. It is necessary to dwell on each group of pharmaceuticals and note their effect on the child’s body during influenza and ARVI viruses.

Interferon

A drug containing interferon contains proteins that warn cells of impending danger. This stimulates their protective properties. Is preventative measure, preventing the appearance of a runny nose and nasal congestion during ARVI.

Drugs in this class include Kipferon, Viferon, Intron, Reaferon, Cycloferon, Interferon. The same medications in the form of ointments or nasal drops are used in the care of the nasal mucosa of a child to prevent influenza or ARVI.

Antiviral drugs

Kagocel, Lavomax, Tiloron, Amiksin, Tsitovir 3, Arbidol, Ingavirin, Agri, Grippferon, Oscillococcinum are representatives of the class of antiviral drugs.
The combined use of Arbidol and Kagocel significantly increases the antiviral activity of both drugs. Kagocel stimulates the production of interferon in the body. Contraindicated for children under 6 years of age due to imperfect development of the child’s immune system. Reduces the risk of complications after suffering from colds.

Arbidol suppresses the activity of influenza and ARVI viruses, increasing immunity. Contraindicated for children under 3 years of age. The dosage depends on the age of the child. The drug is in tablet form.

Among the homeopathic medicines, it is worth noting Agri, Anaferon, Oscillococcinum, Aflubin. They are allowed to be taken for the treatment and prevention of influenza and ARVI in people of different ages, including children.

Agri is antiviral homeopathic remedy. Available in the form of granules or tablets. The granulated form is approved for use in children from infancy. The tablets are indicated for use in children over the age of 1 year.

Anaferon is used for the treatment and prevention of acute respiratory viral infections and influenza. Take once a day for a long time. Approved for use in children from the second month of life.
Oscillococcinum has the form of granules and is used for preventive purposes once a week.

Drugs for the treatment and prevention of influenza

This series of pharmaceuticals for the prevention of influenza and ARVI is represented by the following drugs: Rimantadine, Ergoferon, Relenza, Tamiflu, Peramivir.

1. Relenza is an inhaler more suitable for use in adults. Not recommended for use in treating children with colds. The effectiveness of inhalations for acute respiratory viral infections depends on correctly performed inhalation.
2. Tamiflu is effective for swine flu. The course of treatment is up to 6 weeks. The dosage is 75 mg. Inhibits the reproduction of the virus. Speeds up the healing process. Approved for use in children from birth.
3. The active drug used against influenza is Rimantadine. The dosage of the drug should be selected in accordance with the child’s weight. Not recommended for use in children under 7 years of age. Renders negative impact on liver function.

Vitamin complexes

B vitamins, ascorbic acid, vitamin A are also used as prevention of ARVI.

Prevention of influenza and ARVI remains one of the important measures to preserve the health of children and adults. It is necessary to approach this issue comprehensively, observing both the rules of child hygiene and the recommendations of doctors.