The conversation surrounding post-viral syndromes has been predominantly centered around COVID-19 and its long-term effects, commonly referred to as Long Covid. However, recent research from the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis reveals that influenza, much like its viral counterpart, can also lead to significant long-term health issues, dubbed “Long Flu.”
This important study, published in December 2023 in The Lancet, examined data from over 90,000 individuals hospitalized due to COVID-19 and influenza. The findings indicate that not only does influenza lead to serious long-term effects, but these can often be severe, including increased mortality rates and significant organ damage, especially to the lungs. The term Long Flu is now emerging to describe these persistent and debilitating outcomes, which can mirror those observed in Long Covid cases.
The Role of Regular Temperature Monitoring
Given the severity of these long-term effects, it becomes crucial for individuals recovering from influenza to monitor their health closely. One simple yet effective method is regular temperature checks, which can serve as a preliminary indicator of health status during the recovery phase. A reliable, accurate, and easy-to-use thermometer, such as the Exergen Temporal Artery Thermometer, can play a critical role in this process.
Regular temperature monitoring helps in the following ways:
– Early Detection: Quick identification of fever may suggest complications or secondary infections, which are critical to catch early in the course of recovery.
– Monitoring Progress: Tracking temperature over time can provide insights into the body’s response to infection and recovery, helping to distinguish between normal recovery fluctuations and signs of more severe complications.
– Guiding Medical Decisions: Consistent temperature records can aid healthcare providers in making informed decisions regarding further treatment or investigation, particularly in the context of post-viral syndromes where symptoms can be varied and complex.
Why Choose A Temporal Artery Thermometer?
The Exergen Temporal Artery Thermometer is particularly suited for this task due to its non-invasive nature, making it ideal for frequent use without discomfort. Its precision and reliability ensure that temperature readings are accurate, which is essential for effective health monitoring. This tool becomes indispensable in managing health post-influenza, providing reassurance and crucial data that can guide recovery.
As we continue to navigate the implications of viral infections, both in their acute and prolonged forms, it becomes increasingly clear that tools like the Exergen Temporal Artery Thermometer are vital in managing health effectively. With the emergence of Long Flu as a significant concern, similar to Long Covid, adopting proactive health monitoring practices like regular temperature checks can make a significant difference in recovery outcomes.
Source:
The Lancet, https://www.thelancet.com/journals/laninf/article/PIIS1473-3099(23)00684-9/fulltext
EXERGEN P/N 850168, Rev 1