Influenza and Online Doctor – Identify It Early, Treat It Fast

Influenza is a respiratory infection caused by influenza viruses, and it is different from the common cold. It often starts suddenly with a high fever, muscle and joint aches, headache and severe fatigue. A dry cough often follows. In Finland, the flu season usually peaks in midwinter.

When it comes to remote care, timing is what matters most with influenza. The sooner influenza is identified, the better the doctor can assess whether antiviral treatment will help. That is why it is worth acting as soon as symptoms start rather than waiting.

Take a Home Test as Soon as Symptoms Start

Pharmacies sell home tests that can detect influenza A and B. Many of them also detect COVID-19 and RSV. The test uses a nasal swab, and the result is ready in about 15 minutes.

A positive result helps the doctor assess your situation remotely, quickly and reliably. Tell the doctor your result at the start of the consultation. Keep in mind, however, that a negative home test does not reliably rule out influenza, especially very early on. The doctor always assesses your situation based on your symptoms as well.

How an Online Doctor Can Help with Influenza

During the online consultation, the doctor goes through your symptoms, test result and overall health. You will get home care advice on easing fever and pain, rest and fluids, as well as an assessment of your ability to work. If needed, the doctor can issue a sick leave certificate.

The doctor also assesses whether antiviral treatment for influenza would benefit you. Antivirals are prescription medicines that slow down the multiplication of the virus in the body. They can shorten the illness and reduce the risk of complications, but they work best when started early. If treatment is appropriate, the doctor sends an electronic prescription to the Kanta service, and you can collect the medicine from any pharmacy. The decision on treatment is always made by the doctor.

Early Treatment Is Especially Important for Risk Groups

Most healthy adults recover from influenza at home in about a week. For some people, however, influenza can be a serious illness. It can lead to complications such as pneumonia or worsen an existing condition.

People at increased risk include those aged 65 and over, pregnant women and young children. The same applies to people with chronic heart or lung disease, diabetes, or kidney or liver disease, people with severe obesity, and those whose immune system is weakened by illness or medication. If you belong to a risk group, contact a doctor even if your symptoms are mild. That way, the need for treatment can be assessed in time.

How a Consultation Works at Dokport

You can reach a doctor via chat, including evenings and weekends, and no referral is needed. You describe your symptoms and your home test result, and a licensed Finnish doctor reviews your situation. You receive the assessment and care instructions in writing.

When you have a fever, it is often easiest to take care of things from home. You don't have to go out while ill or expose others to infection in a waiting room.

Summary

With influenza, it pays to act quickly. Take a home test as soon as symptoms start and contact an online doctor, especially if you belong to a risk group. The doctor assesses your situation, gives you care instructions and prescribes antiviral treatment if needed. If your symptoms are severe, seek urgent care.

Written by Dokport's Medical Director, Chief Physician Anna Sipilä.