Introduction​

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Flu (influenza) is a common viral illness that usually gets better on its own, but it can leave you feeling very unwell for several days. While most people recover at home with rest and self-care, flu can be more serious for some individuals.

This page will help you understand flu symptoms, how to look after yourself at home, and when it is important to seek further medical advice.

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Cold or flu – what is the difference?

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Colds and flu are caused by different viruses, but their symptoms can overlap.

In general:

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• Colds tend to develop gradually and are usually mild

• Flu often comes on suddenly and can leave you feeling much more unwell
   

Flu is more likely to cause high temperature, body aches and extreme fatigue.

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Common symptoms of flu

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Flu often starts suddenly and can make you feel quite unwell very quickly. Symptoms may include:

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• a high temperature or feeling hot and shivery

• aching muscles or joint pain

• extreme tiredness or exhaustion

• headaches

• a dry or chesty cough

• sore throat

• difficulty sleeping

• reduced appetite

• nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea or tummy pain

 

Children can experience similar symptoms, but may also complain of ear pain or appear quieter and less active than usual.

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Looking after yourself at home

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If you have flu, there are several things you can do to support your recovery.

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What can help

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• Rest as much as possible and allow your body time to recover

• Keep warm and comfortable

• Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration (your urine should be pale yellow or clear)

• Use paracetamol or ibuprofen to reduce fever and ease aches and pains

• For children, only give medicines suitable for their age and follow the instructions carefully
   

If you are unsure which medicines are appropriate, a pharmacist can offer advice.

⚠️ Avoid taking more than one product containing paracetamol at the same time, as this can lead to accidental overdose.

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Antibiotics and flu
 

Flu is caused by a virus. Antibiotics do not work against viral infections and will not help flu symptoms improve or clear faster.

They are only used when there is a confirmed bacterial infection.

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When to seek further advice

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Get urgent advice from your GP or NHS 111 if:
 

• you are worried about your child’s symptoms

• you are aged 65 or over

• you are pregnant

• you have a long-term health condition (such as heart, lung, kidney or neurological conditions, or diabetes)

• you have a weakened immune system

• your symptoms are not improving after 7 days
   

You can contact NHS 111 online or by phone for advice.

Call 999 or attend A&E immediately if you:
 

• develop sudden chest pain

• have serious difficulty breathing

• cough up a large amount of blood

If possible, do not drive yourself, ask someone to help or call for an ambulance.

 

Reducing the spread of flu

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Flu spreads easily through coughs, sneezes and contact with contaminated surfaces. You are most infectious in the first few days of illness.
 

To help protect others:

• wash your hands regularly with soap and warm water

• cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow

• dispose of tissues promptly

• stay at home if you have a high temperature or feel too unwell to carry out normal activities
   

These small steps can make a big difference in protecting vulnerable people.
 

Flu vaccination
 

The flu vaccine helps reduce the risk of becoming seriously unwell with flu. It is offered every year on the NHS to people who are at higher risk, usually during autumn and early winter.

If you are eligible, getting vaccinated can help protect both you and those around you.
 

Community Medics note
 

This information is designed to support confidence in self-care and help you understand when home management is appropriate, and when it is time to seek further help. If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and seek medical advice.

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