This information is general only and does not replace advice from your GP or healthcare professional.
1. What is the flu?
The flu (influenza) is a contagious viral infection that affects the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs. It usually causes sudden onset of fever, body aches, fatigue, and respiratory symptoms. It can be more severe than the common cold.
2. What are the common symptoms of the flu?
Symptoms include high fever, chills, body aches, headache, fatigue, sore throat, cough, runny or stuffy nose, and sometimes nausea or vomiting. Symptoms often appear abruptly and can be more intense than a common cold.
3. How is the flu different from a common cold?
The flu is generally more severe than a cold. It often causes high fever, significant body aches, exhaustion, and rapid onset of symptoms. Colds are usually milder, with more nasal congestion and sneezing than fever and body aches.
4. How is the flu diagnosed?
Diagnosis is usually based on symptoms and clinical examination. Rapid flu tests can be performed by GPs in some cases to confirm infection, especially in high-risk individuals or during outbreaks.
5. How is the flu treated?
Treatment focuses on symptom relief: rest, hydration, and pain/fever relief (e.g., paracetamol or ibuprofen). Antiviral medications such as Tamiflu (oseltamivir) may be prescribed if started early, especially for people at high risk of complications.
6. Who is at higher risk of complications from the flu?
High-risk groups include children under 5, adults over 65, pregnant women, people with chronic health conditions (heart, lung, kidney, or liver disease), weakened immune systems, or obesity. These individuals should seek medical advice promptly if they develop flu symptoms.
7. Can the flu be prevented?
Yes. The annual flu vaccine is the most effective prevention. Other preventive measures include frequent handwashing, covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing, avoiding close contact with sick people, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
8. How long does the flu last?
Most people recover in 1–2 weeks, but fatigue and cough can last longer. Severe cases or complications like pneumonia may require hospitalization.
9. Is the flu contagious?
Yes. Influenza spreads through droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. It can also spread by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your nose, mouth, or eyes.
10. When should I see a GP for the flu?
Seek medical advice if you have difficulty breathing, persistent high fever, chest pain, confusion, severe weakness, dehydration, or if you are in a high-risk group. Early medical review is important for timely antiviral treatment and to prevent complications.
