Pandemic flu: clinical management of patients with an influenza-like illness during an influenza pandemic

W S Lim

Correspondence to:
Correspondence to:
Dr W S Lim
Department of Respiratory Medicine, Nottingham University Hospitals, City Hospital Campus, Nottingham NG5 1PB, UK; weishen.lim@nuh.nhs.uk

Abbreviations: ARDS, acute respiratory distress syndrome; CAP, community acquired pneumonia; CNS, central nervous system; COPD, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; CSF, cerebrospinal fluid; GP, general practitioner; HDU, high dependency unit; ICU, intensive care unit; ILI, influenza-like illness; NIV, non-invasive ventilation; PCT, primary care trust

The first 150 words of the full text of this article appear below.

SYNOPSIS OF MAIN RECOMMENDATIONS

• This document is intended for use in the UK in the event that the World Health Organization declares that an influenza pandemic has started,¹ and the Department of Health in England (UK-wide lead agency on pandemic influenza, including the devolved administrations) has declared UK Pandemic Alert Level 2 (cases of pandemic influenza identified within the UK).
  
• These guidelines are not relevant for the management of patients affected by seasonal/interpandemic influenza, lower respiratory tract infections, community acquired pneumonia or exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
  
• Once an influenza pandemic is under way, users are strongly urged to ensure that they refer to the most up-to-date version of these guidelines (from web-based access points).
  

SYNOPSIS 1 CLINICAL MANAGEMENT OF ADULTS REFERRED TO HOSPITALS

• Patients with uncomplicated influenza infection would be expected to make a full recovery and do not require hospital care.
  
• In uncomplicated infection, the illness usually resolves in seven days although cough, malaise and lassitude may persist for . . . [Full text of this article]

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