Influenza A: Symptoms, Transmission, and Treatment

Gejala influenza a

Influenza is a viral infection that affects the respiratory system and can be divided into three main types: Influenza A, B, and C. Influenza A can be contagious and may cause serious symptoms if not treated promptly.

How Is Influenza A Different from Other Types of Flu?

Influenza A and B are the most common causes of seasonal flu infections, while influenza C usually causes only mild respiratory symptoms.

Influenza A viruses, including H1N1, have a higher potential to cause outbreaks because they can mutate more rapidly. This means that the flu vaccine you received last year may no longer provide adequate protection against newer strains unless you receive an updated vaccine formulated to protect against the latest circulating influenza A strains.

Symptoms of Influenza A

The following symptoms may occur when someone is infected with the influenza A virus:

  • Cough
  • Stuffy nose
  • Sneezing
  • Sore throat
  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Fatigue
  • Chills
  • Body aches

Influenza A can affect people of all ages, but older adults and people with weakened immune systems are generally more vulnerable to severe illness.

In many cases, influenza A symptoms improve on their own. However, if there is no improvement after one week, you should see a doctor promptly.

If left untreated, a flu infection can lead to complications such as:

  • Ear infections
  • Diarrhea
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Abdominal pain
  • Chest pain
  • Pneumonia
  • Bronchitis

Read Also: 2026 Flu and Pneumonia Vaccine Promotion Package

Treatment for Influenza A

In many cases, influenza A symptoms can improve on their own with adequate rest and plenty of fluids. However, in more severe cases, doctors may prescribe antiviral medications to help reduce the severity of symptoms.

Doctors may also prescribe other medications based on the symptoms experienced, depending on each patient’s individual condition.

How Is Influenza A Transmitted?

The flu virus can spread through respiratory droplets released when an infected person sneezes, coughs, or talks. You can also contract influenza A by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes.

Influenza A can be transmitted as early as one day before symptoms appear. Transmission may continue for up to five days after symptoms begin.

How to Prevent Influenza A

Make sure you receive a flu vaccine every year. In addition, practice the following preventive measures:

  • Wash your hands regularly with running water and soap
  • Avoid crowded places, especially during flu season
  • Eat a balanced, nutritious diet and exercise regularly to support your immune system

Read also: Recommended Vaccination Centers for Children and Adults in West Jakarta

When Should You See a Doctor?

See a doctor promptly if you experience any of the following symptoms:

  • Shortness of breath
  • Chest pain
  • A persistent headache
  • Dehydration
  • Fever and seizures
  • Severe body aches

These symptoms can occur in both adults and children. For children who are not yet able to communicate their symptoms, parents should also be alert to the following signs of influenza A:

  • Breathing faster than usual
  • Blue or pale gray lips or fingernails
  • No tears when crying
  • Dry mouth
  • No urination for an extended period
  • High fever

Read Also: Yellowish-Green Nasal Mucus? It Could Be a Sign of Sinusitis

Pulmonology Specialists at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri

1. dr. Marsheila Riska Sp.P

dr. Marsheila Riska Sp.P is a pulmonologist who completed her General Medicine education at Atma Jaya University and her Pulmonology specialization at Lambung Mangkurat University. She has also completed various courses and training programs, including ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Support) at PERKI House in Jakarta and ATLS (Advanced Trauma Life Support) in Balikpapan at Dr. Kanujoso Djatiwibowo Regional Hospital.

For consultations related to lung and respiratory conditions, dr. Marsheila is available to assist you. She can also perform pulmonary function tests.

dr. Marsheila Riska Sp.P is available at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri on:

  • Monday: 09.00–12.00 WIB
  • Tuesday: 13.00–16.00 WIB
  • Wednesday: 09.00–13.00 WIB
  • Thursday: 13.00–16.00 WIB
  • Friday: 09.00–12.00 WIB
  • Saturday: 12.00–14.00 WIB

See also: Healthy Living Tips Amid Jakarta’s Air Pollution – dr. Marsheilla Riska, Sp.P

2. dr. Andy Sp.P

dr. Andy Sp.P is a pulmonologist who completed his General Medicine education at FK Yarsi Jakarta and his Pulmonology specialization at the University of Indonesia. He has participated in numerous training programs, courses, and international seminars, including the ERS International Congress in Paris, France, in 2018 and in Madrid, Spain, in 2019.

dr. Andy provides consultations for lung and respiratory conditions. He can also perform pulmonary function tests, tuberculosis screening, treatment for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), and bronchoscopy.

dr. Andy Sp.P is available at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri on:

  • Monday: 10.00–12.00 WIB
  • Wednesday: 10.00–12.00 WIB
  • Saturday: 10.00–12.00 WIB

3. Dr. dr. Achmad Mulawarman Jayusman, Sp.P(K)

Dr. dr. Achmad Mulawarman Jayusman, Sp.P(K) is a pulmonologist who completed his General Medicine education at Padjadjaran University in Bandung, followed by Pulmonology and Oncology Consultant training at the University of Indonesia.

He has also completed various international training programs, including rigid bronchoscopy training in France, an interventional course in Singapore, and cryotherapy training in the United Kingdom.

Dr. Achmad has expertise in various areas, including lung cancer management, pulmonary function tests, tuberculosis screening, bronchoscopy, and consultations for lung and respiratory conditions.

Dr. dr. Achmad Mulawarman Jayusman, Sp.P(K) is available at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri on:

  • Tuesday: 09.00–11.00 WIB
  • Thursday: 09.00–11.00 WIB
  • Saturday: 12.00–14.00 WIB

4. dr. Regina Annissa Harahap, Sp.P

dr. Regina Annissa Harahap, Sp.P is a pulmonologist in Jakarta and Tangerang who completed her General Medicine education at FK Yarsi Jakarta and her Pulmonology and Respiratory Medicine specialization at the University of Indonesia.

She has completed training in mechanical ventilation, ACLS training, and an Obstructive Sleep Apnea workshop.

dr. Regina Annissa Harahap, Sp.P is available at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri on:

  • Tuesday: 18.00–20.00 WIB
  • Friday: 18.00–20.00 WIB

If you experience respiratory problems such as influenza A, you can consult the team of pulmonologists at Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri.

To make your visit to Mandaya Royal Hospital Puri more convenient, you can use the Chat via WhatsApp feature, Book an Appointment, or the Care Dokter app, which is available for download on Google Play and the App Store. The app allows you to simplify your visit, check your queue number, and access other important information.

The information provided on this page is intended for educational purposes and general information only and does not represent the full range of medical services that may be provided by each doctor. To ensure appropriate treatment based on your health condition, direct consultation with the relevant doctor is recommended.

If you have any questions, suggestions, or need further information, please contact our call center at 0811-1900-2000.

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