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What is influenza (flu)?

Flu is an illness caused by a virus.  Flu viruses often change so this winter’s flu can be slightly different to last winter’s flu.

How do I know if I have flu?

Some people confuse flu with a heavy cold.  However flu symptoms include:

• a high temperature

• shivering

• headache

• aching limbs

• no energy

Flu is spread by the coughing and sneezing of people who are infected. Symptoms are often rapid, 24-48 hours after exposure.

What to do if you get the flu

• Treat the symptoms with appropriate over the counter remedies, but also be aware of the interactions of those remedies with any other regularly taken medication.

• Get plenty of rest and sleep.

• Drink plenty of fluids, but avoid alcohol.

How long does flu last?

• If symptoms persist, worsen, or improvement is not noted after 2-7 days, it may be necessary to see a doctor.

How serious is flu?

• For most people flu is a nasty experience, for others it may lead to serious illnesses such as bronchitis and pneumonia, sometimes leading to hospital treatment.

• For those most at risk of serious complications of flu, a flu vaccine is available every year.

Please see the Influenza Factsheet (updated September 2008) for more information.