The Flu – Its Symptoms & How It’s Treated

Measures like travel restrictions, social distancing and wearing masks, were introduced to curb the spread of Covid-19 and limit the spread of influenza and other infectious diseases.

With the global pandemic continuing into yet another winter, it’s crucial that we all take measures to prevent an uptick in people getting sick.

Flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death.

The best way to prevent flu is by getting a flu vaccine each year.

Flu symptoms appear one to four days after exposure to the virus, and usually they include the sudden appearance of fever, cough and muscle aches/pain.

Other common symptoms may include:

• headache
• chills
• fatigue
• loss of appetite
• sore throat
• runny or stuffy nose

If you get the flu, stay home and avoid close contact with other people until you feel well enough to get back to your usual day-to-day activities. This will help prevent the spread of the flu.

Most people recover from the flu in seven to ten days.

Flu symptoms can be treated with:

• rest
• fluids, like water
• medication to reduce fever or aches

Over-the-counter cough and flu medicine should not be given to children younger than six years old. It’s only safe to do so if you are advised to by your healthcare provider.