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Flu symptoms

Some people only get mildly ill. Others get very sick.

Flu symptoms appear 1 to 4 days after exposure to the virus. Usually they include the sudden appearance of:

fever

cough

muscle aches and pain

Other common symptoms may include:

headache

chills

fatigue (tiredness)

loss of appetite

sore throat

runny or stuffy nose

Some people (especially children) may also have:

diarrhea

nausea and vomiting

Additional symptoms to watch for in children

As a parent, you know your child best. Talk to your healthcare provider right away if you notice any of these symptoms:

not drinking or eating as usual

not waking up or interacting with others

irritable (not wanting to play or be held)

Contagious period

People infected with the flu virus can spread it to others:

starting 1 day before the first symptoms

until approximately 5 days after the first symptoms

If you get the flu

If you do get sick, stay home. Avoid close contact with other people until you feel well enough to get back to your usual day-to-day activities. This will help prevent the spread of the flu. Most people recover from the flu in 7 to 10 days.

If you are a person at high risk of flu-related complications and develop flu symptoms, contact your healthcare provider. Tell them about your flu symptoms over the phone before your appointment. That way, they can arrange to see you without exposing other people.

When to seek immediate attention

Visit your nearest hospital if you develop any of these serious symptoms:

shortness of breath, rapid breathing or difficulty breathing

chest pain

bluish or grey skin colour

bloody or coloured mucus/spit

sudden dizziness or confusion

severe or persistent vomiting

high fever lasting more than three days

low blood pressure

Possible complications of the flu

pneumonia and respiratory failure

worsening of chronic health conditions

Other severe outcomes of the flu

hospitalization

death

How the flu is diagnosed

The flu is usually diagnosed by your healthcare provider based on:

symptoms

laboratory tests

Flu treatment

Flu symptoms can be treated with:

rest

fluids, like water

medication to reduce any fever or aches

In some cases your healthcare provider may prescribe medication, especially if you are:

at high risk for flu-related complications

very sick with severe symptoms

Over-the-counter cough and flu medicine should not be given to children younger than 6 years old. It is only safe to do so if you are advised to by your healthcare provider.

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