Influenza Viruses - The "Flu"

Course Description & Information:

• Influenza is a febrile illness of the upper and lower respiratory tract, caused by a virus that mutates frequently, endowing it with exceeding durability. The disease has been present in humans for more than 2400 years, and elicits epidemics and pandemics every 10 to 50 years. Not only does the virus move among humans, but also traverses between humans and other animals. Few effective methods currently exist for acute treatment of influenza infection, so prevention is the most useful tactic employed. Annual vaccination of the public is an essential component of prevention. This course provides a historical perspective of the influenza disease, current understanding of its biology, and current immunization recommendations, including those of special populations. Also addressed are other standard preventative measures and supportive, symptomatic care for patients exhibiting symptoms of influenza infection.
• ACPE UAN: 0826-9999-22-026-L01-P, IRD: 12-30-22. Knowledge based activity.

• Identify what “influenza” is, as a disease, and as a virus.
• Explain the influenza virus lifecycle in humans, and the importance of notable influenza epitopes and components.
• Identify peak infection times in the United States.
• List currently approved drugs for treatment of influenza infection.
• Differentiate among the various currently available types of influenza prevention (vaccines).

Course Credit: 2 Contact Hours

Accreditations: View Course Accreditations

Who Should Attend:

Pharmacists, Dietitians, Nursing professionals (2 hours of pharmacotherapeutic credit), Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy professionals, and other medical professionals.

Certificate Requirements:

• Full attendance.
• Completion of course post-test (70%) and evaluation.

How to Take a Live Online Seminar: View Tutorial