Navigating influenza (flu) season can be stressful, but you don’t have to do it alone. Learn how to stay healthy, recognize flu symptoms, get tested and get the right treatment to feel better fast and protect those around you.
Flu is a contagious respiratory illness that affects your nose, throat and sometimes your lungs. It can make you feel sick for several days and can occasionally lead to more serious complications, especially if you have other health conditions.
Flu symptoms can come on suddenly and vary from person to person. Common flu symptoms include:
Fever and body aches often last for three to seven days. Cough and fatigue may last for two weeks or more.
In most cases, your provider can determine if you have the flu based on your symptoms and a physical exam. During the exam, your provider will check your throat and ears, listen to your lungs and check your temperature and pulse. Sometimes, a flu test is needed to confirm the diagnosis or determine if you have influenza A or B.
There are different types of tests used to diagnose the flu. For most tests, a nose swab is taken, which involves a provider inserting a cotton swab into your nose to collect a sample. The most common types of flu tests include:
Most of the time, flu can be treated at home by getting plenty of rest, drinking fluids and using over-the-counter medicine to ease symptoms.
Your provider may prescribe an antiviral medication, like Tamiflu, to help you feel better faster and make your symptoms less severe. These medications are most effective when you start them within 48 hours of your first symptoms.
If your symptoms worsen suddenly, or you experience a high fever that doesn’t improve with over-the-counter medicine, contact your provider or visit your nearest urgent care.
If you have trouble breathing, chest pain, confusion or bluish color on your lips or face, call 9-1-1 or go to the nearest emergency room.
Flu spreads through tiny droplets that pass through the air when someone coughs, sneezes or talks. It's possible to catch flu virus from touching surfaces but, less common than direct person-to-person spread.
You can reduce your risk of getting the flu by:
If you do get sick, you can prevent spreading the flu by:
Flu vaccines are safe, effective and available through your OSF primary care provider, urgent care clinics, local pharmacies and health departments.
If you receive your flu vaccine outside OSF, be sure to let your primary care provider know so we can update your health records.
Not sure if the vaccine is right for you? Message your provider. They know your health history and can give you personal guidance.
Yes. You can spread the flu to others starting a day before your symptoms appear and for up to seven days after. Children and people with weakened immune systems may be contagious longer.
Most people feel better in one to two weeks, though cough or fatigue may last longer.
Flu is most common in fall and winter, typically October through March.
The stomach flu isn’t caused by influenza. Flu affects your body’s breathing system, while stomach flu, or gastroenteritis, causes nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
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