Influenza physical examination

For more information about non-human (variant) influenza viruses that may be transmitted to humans, see Zoonotic influenza

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Alejandro Lemor, M.D. [2]

During the physical examination in a patient with influenza, findings can include fever, tachycardia, tachypnea, sore throat, and fatigue. Complications can worsen the patient’s condition and findings in the lung examination may include dry cough, rales and focal wheezing.

The physical examination in a patient with influenza depends on several factors, such as age, comorbidities and immune response. Physical findings could vary among patient, from a mild disease with few signs and symptoms, to severely ill patients with respiratory insufficiency.^[1][2]

• Fatigue

• Fever (100-104° F)
• Tachycardia
• Tachypnea

• Flushing may be present
• Rash may be present
• Increased sweating

• Watery eyes
• Redness

• Nasal congestion
• Runny nose

• Erythema and inflammation may be present
• Pharyngitis

• Usually lung examination is normal
• Findings of severe disease include

• Dry cough
• Rales
• Focal wheezing

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