Helen became ill while traveling in Vietnam and was admitted to Tam Anh General Hospital TP HCM. Dr. Tat Hoang Phat, from the Emergency Department, noted a significant drop in the patient's blood oxygen saturation (SpO2) to 88% (normal is above 95%). She was breathing rapidly at 32 breaths per minute, faster than the normal rate of 16-20 breaths per minute, with severe respiratory muscle retraction.

Test results confirmed the patient had severe pneumonia caused by influenza A infection, complicated by sepsis and heart failure. Helen's medical history included hypertension, heart failure, and arrhythmia, for which she had a pacemaker implanted. Her condition was exacerbated by not having received the seasonal flu vaccine, necessitating intensive treatment.

Dr. Doan Quoc Anh, from the intensive care unit (ICU) and Poison Control Department, prescribed high-flow oxygen, broad-spectrum antibiotics, antiviral medication for influenza, bronchodilators, and cardiovascular support. The medical team continuously monitored blood gases, heart and kidney function, and inflammation markers to assess her response to treatment.

After several days of intensive resuscitation, her inflammation markers began to decrease, and her lungs gradually showed improved ventilation. The patient was successfully weaned off the ventilator.

The patient receiving care in the ICU. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Past the critical stage, Helen became alert, communicative, and able to eat. She experienced a mild cough and transient fatigue, gradually recovering.

According to Dr. Quoc Anh, for individuals over 65, especially those with underlying cardiovascular or respiratory conditions, contracting influenza can quickly lead to pneumonia and respiratory failure. Older adults should not be complacent when experiencing symptoms such as coughing, fever, fatigue, or shortness of breath.

Annual flu vaccination, effective management of underlying medical conditions, and early medical consultation for any unusual symptoms are key factors in reducing the risk of severe complications. The WHO estimates 3 to 5 million severe influenza cases and 650,000 influenza-related deaths globally each year.

Nhat Thanh

*Patient's name has been changed