Canadians at increased risk for flu complications not aware of all the facts

New survey shows two-thirds of at-risk Canadians don't think the flu is a "big deal" and are putting their health in jeopardy

It starts with a headache, chills or that all-over-achy feeling. It comes on quickly, yet too many Canadians ignore the rapid onset of flu symptoms.  But for the millions of Canadians at increased risk for developing serious complications from the flu, including people 65 and older, pregnant women and those with chronic medical conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, heart disease and diabetes, this 'laissez faire' attitude could be putting their health in jeopardy.

According to a new poll by the Ontario Lung Association, nearly two-thirds of at-risk Canadians don't recognize they face an increased possibility of developing severe and life threatening complications due to seasonal influenza. These complications send 20,000 people to the hospital each year and up to 8,000 individuals die from them.

"Canadians at risk of serious complications from the flu may not have all the facts," says Dr. Anthony D'Urzo, Associate Professor in the Department of Family and Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, and a family physician based in Toronto. "Too often they mistake the flu with a common cold, thinking it can be taken care of with chicken soup and rest.  But if you are at high risk for complications, the first thing to do is see your doctor as soon as symptoms begin - there are measures you can take to reduce your risk of complications and hospitalization."

The survey revealed four out of five (80 per cent) respondents said they hold off seeing their doctor because their symptoms are "manageable" and nearly three-quarters (70 per cent) don't seek a doctor's advice because they believe the only treatments are over-the-counter remedies. 

According to Dr. D'Urzo, left untreated the flu can lead to serious issues including pneumonia, dehydration and worsening of chronic conditions.  "For individuals who face a greater risk for developing complications such as these, the key is acting quickly. There are antiviral medications available that can lessen the length and severity of the illness."

Flu Facts: The Fast and the Furious
Seasonal flu is a respiratory infection caused by the influenza virus.  Every year in Canada, up to 25 per cent of the population will contract the seasonal flu.  In 2010, it's expected between four and eight million Canadians will become infected during flu season, which generally happens during late fall and through the winter months. 

Unlike the common cold that comes on gradually, flu symptoms come on fast and furious and almost always include cough and fever.  Other symptoms to watch for include: headache, chills, loss of appetite, muscle aches, fatigue, runny nose, sneezing, watery eyes and throat irritation.  According to the Ontario Lung Association, fast onset of symptoms requires a fast response, yet nearly two-thirds of at-risk Canadians don't know that a rapid onset of symptoms means flu.

Fighting the Flu
While seasonal flu is a yearly occurrence in Canada, there are steps people can take to help protect themselves:

• For individuals at increased risk for developing serious complications, the first line of defense is the flu shot.  In particular for people with COPD or asthma, the flu shot can help prevent flare-ups caused by chest infections.  And while the flu shot is a great first step, it takes two weeks for the shot to provide full protection - which is why keeping in regular contact with your physician is so vital.
• To help prevent the spread of the virus, wash hands thoroughly and often with warm water and soap or hand sanitizer before you touch your nose or mouth, keep a distance from those with the flu and regularly clean and disinfect common areas and shared items.
• To keep your immune system healthy, get plenty of sleep, exercise regularly, and eat well.
• If you are 65 and older, pregnant or living with a chronic medical condition, see your physician as soon as symptoms appear to avoid becoming more sick.

"While a prevention plan can help reduce the risk of contracting seasonal flu, there are no guarantees.  If you fall into one of the at-risk groups and start experiencing flu symptoms call your doctor. Remember timing is everything - if it comes on quickly, act quickly," says Dr. D'Urzo.

To learn more about seasonal influenza, talk to your doctor or health care provider; or call the toll-free Lung Health information line at 1-888-344-LUNG or email [email protected]