Flu symptoms
Flu symptoms come on very quickly and can include:
- a sudden fever (temperature of 38C or above)
- an aching body
- feeling tired or exhausted
- a dry cough
- a sore throat
- a headache
- difficulty sleeping
- loss of appetite
- diarrhoea or tummy pain
- feeling sick and being sick.
The symptoms are similar for children, but they can also get pain in their ear and appear less active.
The NHS website has information on how to check your symptoms and treat colds and flu yourself.
Check if you have the flu
Check if you have a cold
Pharmacists can give treatment advice and recommend flu remedies. Be careful not to use flu remedies if you're taking paracetamol and ibuprofen tablets, as it's easy to take more than the recommended dose.
If you are concerned about your symptoms, call 111 or visit 111.nhs.uk.
Call 999 or go to Accident and Emergency if you:
- develop sudden chest pain
- have difficulty breathing
- start coughing up blood.
Avoid spreading the flu
Flu is very infectious and easily spread to other people. You're more likely to give it to others in the first 5 days.
Flu is spread by germs from coughs and sneezes, which can live on hands and surfaces for 24 hours.
Read NHS guidance on preventing the spread of flu
Preventing the flu
The flu vaccine reduces the risk of catching flu, as well as spreading it to others.
It's more effective to get the vaccine before the start of the flu season (December to March).
Find out if you're eligible for the free NHS flu vaccine