Abstract

VILLENA FERRER, Alejandro et al. Five key questions on flu: A review of the guidelines. Rev Clin Med Fam [online]. 2009, vol.2, n.8, pp.412-425. ISSN 2386-8201.

Flu is an acute infectious disease caused by the viruses A, B and C. It mainly affects the respiratory system and is easily transmitted by secretions and contaminated objects. It has a potential risk of complications, especially in susceptible groups, and is one of the most common causes of work absenteeism. With the aim of updating flu management and collecting information that will help the doctor in decision making, we reviewed the recommendations given in different clinical practice guidelines. We searched the bibliographical databases commonly used internationally and chose those guidelines that based their recommendations on levels of evidence and that had been updated in the last three years. We decided to include other guidelines that do not mention levels of evidence but that are endorsed by internationally renowned scientific societies or institutions. We compared the recommendations given according to five key elements: diagnosis, management in health centres, treatment, advice and information to the general public and vaccination.

Keywords : Influenza; Human; Disease Management; Antiviral Agents; Influenza vaccines; Health Education.

        · abstract in Spanish     · text in Spanish     · Spanish ( pdf )