What Are the Symptoms of Flu?
Flu symptoms appear suddenly 1–4 days after contact with the virus and usually include:
- High Fever: A sudden fever of 38°C or above.
- Dry Cough: A persistent, dry cough that irritates the throat.
- Muscle and Joint Pain: Intense aches, especially in the back, arms and legs.
- Severe Headache: A headache accompanied by a feeling of pressure around the eyes.
- Tiredness and Weakness: Extreme fatigue that can last for days.
- Sore Throat: Burning and pain in the throat, with difficulty swallowing.
- Runny or Blocked Nose: Common symptoms during flu.
- Stomach and Bowel Problems: Some people may also have nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea.
How to Protect Yourself from Flu
The most effective way to protect yourself from flu is to get vaccinated, but there are also some everyday measures you can take:
-
Flu Vaccine: Getting vaccinated every year before the flu season starts (usually in October) is the most effective way to protect yourself. The vaccine strengthens the immune system and provides protection against the flu virus.
-
Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands often with soap and water. Washing your hands, especially after coming in from outside, after using the toilet and before eating, helps stop viruses spreading.
-
Cleaning Surfaces: To prevent viruses from spreading, regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces (door handles, tabletops, phones).
-
Avoiding Crowds: Staying away from crowded, enclosed spaces, particularly during flu outbreaks, reduces the risk of infection.
-
Strengthening Your Immune System: A balanced diet, enough sleep, regular exercise and avoiding stress keep your immune system strong and increase your resistance to infection.
Flu Treatment Options
Flu treatment aims to relieve symptoms and prevent complications. Some of the approaches used to treat flu are:
-
Rest: Getting enough rest is important for recovery. Bed rest helps the body regain its energy and the immune system fight the virus.
-
Fluids: Drinking plenty of fluids prevents dehydration and helps thin mucus. Water, herbal teas, soup and fruit juices are all helpful.
-
Fever Reducers and Painkillers: Medicines such as paracetamol or ibuprofen can be used to bring down a fever and ease muscle aches. Always consult a doctor before taking any medication.
-
Antiviral Medication: When taken in the early stage of flu (within the first 48 hours), antiviral medicines such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu) and zanamivir (Relenza) can shorten the illness and reduce the severity of symptoms.
-
Symptomatic Treatment: Treatments that target specific symptoms can be used, such as decongestants for a blocked nose, expectorants for a cough and lozenges for a sore throat.
-
See a Doctor: People in risk groups – particularly those over 65, people with chronic illnesses, pregnant women and young children – should always see a healthcare professional when flu symptoms start.
Seasonal flu is an illness that can lead to serious health problems but can be managed with the right precautions and treatment. Getting a flu vaccine every year, following good hygiene and keeping your immune system strong are the most effective ways to protect yourself. Resting and taking the necessary precautions when you have flu symptoms helps prevent the illness from spreading.
We wish you good health! Remember, the simple precautions you take against flu protect both you and your loved ones.