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Signs and Symptoms of Influenza

Influenza, or the flu, is a respiratory infection that affects the throat, nose and lungs. Influenza viruses spread easily from person to person, so preventing yourself and your loved ones from getting influenza is important.

Getting a flu vaccine every year is the best way to prevent the flu. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends everyone age 6 months and older receive a flu vaccine. Flu vaccines are generally available beginning in September of each year in preparation for flu season, which runs from October to May. Cases of the virus often peak in February.

Find a primary care provider who can give you a flu vaccine, or visit one of our three Beaufort Memorial Express Care and Occupational Health locations in Bluffton, Okatie and Port Royal.

Flu

Common Influenza Symptoms

Common signs of the flu include:

  • Chills
  • Coughing
  • Fatigue
  • Fever
  • Headache
  • Muscle or body aches
  • Nasal congestion

Most people start to show symptoms of influenza 48 hours after exposure to the virus. Symptoms typically appear suddenly, as opposed to a cold, where symptoms are more gradual. Flu symptoms in children are similar to those in adults, but children may experience additional symptoms, such as fussiness, diarrhea and vomiting.

What to Do If You Get the Flu

First, follow CDC guidelines for staying home and avoiding contact with other people, except to receive medical care. Most cases of the flu last about five days, but you or your loved one may feel sick for up to a week.

Many people recover from the flu without medication. However, the flu can lead to serious complications, such as pneumonia. The CDC recommends that people at risk for those complications, including pregnant women, adults age 65 and older and people with asthma, diabetes and heart disease, receive antiviral medications. Antibiotics will not work against the flu because they kill bacteria, and the flu is caused by a virus.

Here are some things you can do to help yourself or your loved one recover from the flu.

  • Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration.
  • Get as much rest as possible.
  • Treat symptoms with over-the-counter medications, such as acetaminophen, which can lower a fever, or ibuprofen, which helps with pain.

Wait until you feel better to resume day-to-day activities. Don’t return to work or school until 24 hours after the fever has gone down on its own, without the help of fever-reducing medication.