Flu: Fast Facts, Simple Tips, and What to Do Now
Flu hits fast and hard. If you wake up with fever, body aches, dry cough, or crushing fatigue, don't shrug it off. Influenza is more than a bad cold - it can spiral into pneumonia or other complications, especially for older adults, infants, pregnant people, and anyone with chronic illness.
Here's a clear plan you can follow right away: test if you can, isolate to protect others, start supportive care, and call your doctor if you're high-risk or getting worse. Antiviral pills like oseltamivir work best when started within 48 hours of symptoms and can shave days off your illness when used properly.
Symptoms and when to get help
Typical flu signs show up suddenly: fever, chills, sore throat, runny nose, muscle aches, headache, and tiredness. Some people also have vomiting or diarrhea. A simple rule: if you can't keep fluids down, can't breathe, have chest pain, severe dizziness, or symptoms that get worse after a few days, seek medical care right away.
If you're in a high-risk group - age 65+, under 5, pregnant, or have heart, lung, kidney disease, or a weakened immune system - call your healthcare provider early. They may offer antiviral treatment even if you're a few days into the illness.
Prevention that actually works
Get the yearly flu vaccine. It isn't perfect, but studies show it lowers the chance of severe illness, hospitalization, and death. Effectiveness varies by season and strain, but vaccination is still the smartest move for most people.
Other simple steps cut your risk: wash your hands, use a mask around sick people, keep distance when possible, and clean high-touch surfaces. If you're sick, stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone without using fever reducers.
Rapid tests are handy at home and can tell you quickly if you likely have flu, though they sometimes miss infections. If a test is negative but you still feel very sick, contact your provider - they may recommend a more sensitive test or treatment.
Managing symptoms at home: rest, drink plenty of fluids, and use acetaminophen or ibuprofen for fever and aches. Humidifiers and saline nasal sprays can ease congestion. Avoid giving aspirin to children or teens with fever.
Antivirals aren't for everyone, but they matter for people at high risk and those with severe symptoms. If your doctor prescribes them, follow instructions exactly and finish the course. Don't use leftover antibiotics - they don't work on viruses.
Worried about long-term effects? Most healthy adults recover in a week or two, but fatigue can linger. If breathing problems, chest pain, or new confusion appear after recovery, seek immediate care.
Want reliable local advice? Call your clinic or pharmacist. They can help with testing locations, antiviral availability, and safe care options. Being prepared and acting fast usually makes a big difference. Keep a small sick kit: thermometer, oral rehydration, and over-the-counter meds for adults. Update your vaccine record each year. Annually.
