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Brisbane Flu Symptoms

Brisbane flu usually refers specifically to a particularly virulent strain of the H3N2 influenza virus, although several Brisbane strains have been identified. The worst of these has been A/Brisbane/10/2007, which was first widely observed during the 2007 flu season. Brisbane flu has remained prominent, and it has been responsible for deaths in Australia and around the world. Since its identification, health officials have changed the flu vaccine to better deal with this powerful variant of the flu virus.

  1. Early Symptoms

    • Like other forms of influenza, Brisbane flu can start off with numerous sudden symptoms, which may be mild or severe. It usually begins with a fever, headache, muscle aches, chills, runny nose, coughing and fatigue. Patients may experience all of these symptoms or only a few of them. Some patients may never worsen and begin improving after a few days.

    Later Symptoms

    • Severe exhaustion and dehydration are possible as the flu continues to ravage the body. Higher fevers, severe dry coughing, body aches and body shakes are common symptoms as the flu worsens. Many flu victims also experience more severe nausea, vomiting and other forms of gastrointestinal distress.

    Worsening Symptoms

    • Influenza can be deadly, and the Brisbane strains have already claimed lives over numerous flu seasons. One of the biggest dangers when battling flu is dehydration. This symptom alone can be deadly. Flu may also turn into pneumonia, which can also be deadly.

    Contagious

    • The flu is highly contagious, and Brisbane HSN2 is no exception. When experiencing flu symptoms, it's best to see your doctor and avoid contact with others to help prevent its spread. Consider a surgical mask when going out--or better yet, stay home.

    Effects

    • Brisbane HSN2 has affected three times as many people as other flu strains during the 2007 and 2008 flu seasons. In June and July 2007, more than 800 deaths from Brisbane flu were reported in New South Wales, Australia. Many of the victims were children.

    Prevention/Solution

    • The makeup of the flu vaccine is adjusted each year to battle the strains prevalent at the time. The 2008-2009 flu shot protected against the two most prevalent Brisbane strains, and it is expected to make up part of future vaccines as the virus remains a threat. By getting a flu shot, you can better protect yourself from this and other strains. You should also be sure to avoid contact with other ill people and wash your hands regularly, especially during flu season. Antibiotics offer no protection from the flu or its symptoms.

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