What should I do if I suspect I have the flu?

Flu symptoms typically include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, fatigue, and sometimes vomiting or diarrhea. If you suspect you have the flu, follow these steps:

Managing symptoms:

Rest, stay hydrated, and take over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen to relieve fever and aches. Make sure to cover your mouth and nose when sneezing or coughing to prevent spreading the virus.

Seeking medical attention:

If you experience severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain, confusion, or sudden dizziness, seek medical help immediately. High-risk individuals like children, elderly, pregnant women, and those with underlying health conditions should also see a doctor promptly.

Preventing the spread:

Avoid close contact with others, wash your hands frequently, and disinfect commonly touched surfaces to prevent spreading the flu virus to others.

Getting tested and flu diagnosis:

If you suspect you have the flu, a healthcare provider can perform a rapid flu test to confirm the diagnosis. This is especially important if you are at higher risk for flu complications.

Flu prevention tips:

To reduce your risk of getting the flu, get vaccinated annually, practice good hygiene, and maintain a healthy lifestyle with regular exercise and a balanced diet.