Learn about the flu below:
Influenza, or the ‘flu’, is a respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus.
Symptoms :
Symptoms mimic the common cold but with more intensity. Flu symptoms include (but are not limited to) fever, chills, dry cough, aching muscles, a sore throat and a runny nose.
Common Causes :
The influenza virus can be transmitted in air droplets or through touching an infected object and then touching the eyes, nose or mouth. Individuals can be infectious for up to 5 days once the virus is contracted.
Treatments :
In most healthy individuals, the flu resolves by itself within a week or two. Immunocompromised and at-risk individuals are recommended to seek medical care for complications. There is also a flu vaccine that is seasonally administered to prevent the onset of influenza.
Please note that while symptoms may be similar, the flu is not the same as the newly contagious COVID-19. Refer to the NHS for COVID-19 symptoms and treatment.
‘Ask Gogodoc About’ is an educational series providing information on various symptoms, pains, and disorders. (*intended for educational purposes only. If you are experiencing symptoms, please reach out to book an online video consultation with a Gogodoc GP. Our NHS-registered GPs can speak to you via video call to provide expert medical advice and get you the right prescriptions and referrals.)
