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Table 3 Influenza symptoms in the literature and professional websites

From: Development of the Flu-PRO: a patient-reported outcome (PRO) instrument to evaluate symptoms of influenza

System symptom

Number of published papers (n = 32) or websitesa (n = 3) with this symptom (N = 35)

Upper respiratory

Nasal congestion (e.g., obstruction, stuffiness)

14 (40.0 %)

Rhinorrhea (runny nose)

13 (37.1 %)

Sneezing

4 (11.4 %)

Sore throat

26 (74.3 %)

Hoarseness

3 (8.6 %)

Ear ache and/or pressure

4 (11.4 %)

Conjunctivitis

1 (2.9 %)

Sinus pain

1 (2.9 %)

Coryza

2 (5.7 %)

Nasal symptoms

2 (5.7 %)

Lower respiratory

Cough

29 (82.9 %)

Dyspnea/difficulty breathing

4 (11.4 %)

Chest congestion

1 (2.9 %)

Chest discomfort

2 (5.7 %)

Systemic

Headache

22 (62.9 %)

Muscle/joint aches and pains

25 (71.4 %)

Fatigue (weakness, tiredness, low energy)

16 (45.7 %)

Loss of or poor appetite

6 (17.1 %)

Vomiting

7 (20 %)

Nausea

3 (8.6 %)

Diarrhea

4 (11.4 %)

Digestive symptoms

2 (5.7 %)

Feverishness, chills, rigors, sweats

16 (45.7 %)

Dizziness

2 (5.7 %)

Malaise

3 (8.6 %)

Fatigue/weakness/tiredness/low energy

15 (42.9 %)

Signs

Fever

32 (91.4 %)

  1. aWebsites: World Health Organization (WHO); National Institute for Allergy and Infectious Disease (NIAID); Centers for Disease Control (CDC)