Question

True/False:

Your patient comes in after suspecting she has the flu. C&S tests confirm she does. She proceeds to tell you that she had been running a fever for about 3 days but now she isn't-you confirm after taking her V/S this. She says to you, "At least no one in my household are at risk now that I'm not running a fever." You agree with her and proceed with your assessment because you know that influenza is only contagious while a person has a fever, which lasts usually 3 days.

Answer 1

The statement is false. Influenza is contagious before, during, and after the fever subsides. Precautions should still be taken to prevent the spread of the virus.

Step-by-step explanation:

No, the statement is false. Although the patient may not be running a fever, it does not mean that she is no longer contagious. Influenza is actually contagious before the fever starts, during the fever, and even after the fever subsides. The period of contagiosity for influenza typically lasts for about 5-7 days from the onset of symptoms.

During this period, the virus can be spread to others through respiratory droplets when the infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. Therefore, it is important for the patient to take precautions such as covering her mouth and nose with a tissue or elbow when coughing or sneezing, washing her hands frequently, and avoiding close contact with others to prevent the spread of influenza.

Additionally, the patient should stay home and rest until she has fully recovered to avoid exposing others to the virus. This not only helps protect the household members but also reduces the risk of transmission to the community.