Patricia was called at work by a woman at the local day care center. She told
Patricia to come and pick up her son because he was not feeling well. Her son, 3½-
year-old Marshall, had been feeling tired and achy when he woke up. While at day
care, his cheeks had become red, and he was warm to touch. He did not want to
play with his friends, and by the time Patricia arrived, he was crying. Later that
afternoon, Marshall’s condition worsened. He had fever, chills, a sore throat, runny
nose, and a dry hacking cough. Suspecting Marshall had influenza, Patricia
wrapped him up and took him to the community health care clinic.&
1. Why did Marshall’s presentation lead Patricia to think he had influenza
and not a cold? Why is it important to medically evaluate and diagnose
a potential influenza infection?
1. Marshall's rapid symptom onset, particularly malaise, suggests
influenza rather than the common cold, which typically presents less
aggressively. A medical evaluation is crucial to prevent inappropriate
antibiotic use, as these are ineffective against influenza.
2. Describe the pathophysiology of the influenza virus. Outline the properties
of influenza A antigens that allow them to exert their effects in the host.
1. L
3. Marshall may be at risk at contracting secondary bacterial pneumonia. Why
is this so? Explain why cyanosis may be a feature associated with
pneumonia.
1. L
