Respiratory Viruses

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What is R0 (R naught)?

The average number of new infections caused by one infected individual during their infectious period.

What is CFR (Case Fatality Rate)?

The proportion of deaths among confirmed cases of a disease, expressed as a percentage.

Example R0 for Measles?

12 to 18.

Example CFR for Ebola?

Up to 90%.

Main antiviral options for COVID-19?

Paxlovid (nirmatrelvir+ritonavir), Remdesivir, Molnupiravir.

Steroid treatments for severe COVID-19?

Dexamethasone, prednisolone, hydrocortisone.

Role of monoclonal antibodies in COVID-19?

Neutralize the virus by binding to the spike (S) protein and blocking ACE2 receptor binding.

Main monoclonal antibody still recommended for COVID-19 in 2024?

Sotrovimab.

Mechanism of JAK inhibitors like Baricitinib?

Block the JAK-STAT pathway to reduce cytokine-driven inflammation.

Key influenza virus proteins?

Hemagglutinin (H) and neuraminidase (N).

What is antigenic drift?

Minor genetic mutations causing gradual changes in influenza viruses.

What is antigenic shift?

Abrupt major changes creating a new influenza subtype.

First-line antivirals for influenza?

Oseltamivir (oral) and zanamivir (inhaled).

Mechanism of oseltamivir?

Blocks viral neuraminidase, preventing release of new viral particles.

Most common viruses causing the common cold?

Rhinoviruses and coronaviruses.

Supportive treatments for common cold?

Rest, hydration, paracetamol/ibuprofen, steam inhalation, saline nasal drops.

Are antibiotics recommended for viral respiratory infections?

No, unless secondary bacterial infection is suspected.

Who is at highest risk for serious influenza complications?

Infants, older adults, pregnant women, and individuals with chronic conditions.

Epidemiology: What is the difference between incidence and prevalence?

Incidence: new cases; Prevalence: existing cases at a given time.

What is herd immunity?

Resistance to disease spread when a large portion of a population is immune.