Acute Illness - Acute Influenza
Flu is an infectious and common viral illness spread by coughs and sneezes.
It's not the same as the common cold. Flu is caused by a different group of viruses. Symptoms tend to be more severe and last longer.
You can catch flu – short for influenza – all year round, but it is especially common in winter, which is why it is also known as "seasonal flu".
Flu causes:
- A sudden high temperature,
- Headache and general aches and pains,
- Tiredness and a sore throat. You can also
- Loss of appetite,
- Feelings of nausea,
- A cough.
Flu symptoms can make you feel so exhausted and unwell that you have to stay in bed and rest until you feel better.
When to see a doctor at Lion Health
If you are otherwise fit and healthy, there is usually no need to see a doctor if you have flu-like symptoms.
The best way to treat it is with supportive therapies from the pharmacy.
- Paracetamol or ibuprofen to lower a high temperature and relieve aches.
- Rest and fluids to ensure dehydration does not develop.
You should see a doctor if you have flu-like symptoms and you:
- Are aged 65 or over
- Are pregnant
- Have a long-term medical condition such as diabetes, heart disease, lung disease, kidney disease or a neurological disease
- Have a weakened immune system
Antibiotics are of no use in the treatment of flu because it is caused by a virus and not by bacteria.
Flu symptoms usually last for up to 1 week and you are contagious for 1 day prior to symptom development and for a further 5-6 days.