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Overview
Influenza is a viral infection that hits harder than a common cold — fever, body aches and exhaustion often start suddenly. Most healthy people recover within one to two weeks, but the very young, the elderly, pregnant women and people with chronic illness can develop complications like pneumonia.
Symptoms
- Sudden fever and chills
- Marked body and muscle aches
- Headache
- Dry cough
- Sore throat
- Fatigue and weakness
- Runny or blocked nose
Causes & risk factors
- Influenza viruses spread by coughs and sneezes
- Crowded indoor settings
- Touching contaminated surfaces then the face
Treatment & self-care
Rest, plenty of fluids and fever relief are the mainstay; most people recover at home. Doctors may prescribe antiviral tablets for high-risk patients seen early. Yearly flu vaccination is worthwhile for vulnerable groups.
See a doctor urgently if
- Breathing difficulty or chest pain
- Fever that settles then returns with a worse cough
- Signs of dehydration or inability to drink
- Flu symptoms in pregnancy, infancy or chronic illness
Frequently asked questions
- What are the first signs of Influenza (Flu)?
- Early signs often include sudden fever and chills, marked body and muscle aches, headache. Symptoms vary from person to person, so a proper assessment by a doctor is the only way to be sure.
- Can Influenza (Flu) be treated?
- Rest, plenty of fluids and fever relief are the mainstay; most people recover at home. Doctors may prescribe antiviral tablets for high-risk patients seen early. Yearly flu vaccination is worthwhile for vulnerable groups.
- When should I see a doctor about Influenza (Flu)?
- See a doctor promptly if you notice: breathing difficulty or chest pain; fever that settles then returns with a worse cough; signs of dehydration or inability to drink; flu symptoms in pregnancy, infancy or chronic illness.