Flu
Seasonal flu (also known as influenza) is a highly infectious illness caused by a flu virus.
The virus infects your lungs and upper airways, causing a sudden high temperature and general aches and pains. Your symptoms will usually peak after two to three days and you should begin to feel much better within five to eight days.
Flu cannot be treated by antibiotics. If you have flu you should stay home and rest, drink plenty of fluids and take paracetamol based cold remedies.
Healthy people with seasonal flu usually do not need to see their doctor as they will get better on their own. The NHS Choices website provides information about when you should seek medical attention.
You can also find more information about flu in the Battle Against Colds and Flu leaflet.People who who are at greater risk of developing serious complications from flu can have a flu jab. This will give good protection against flu and lasts for 1 year. You can find more information about the flu jab on the NHS Choices website.
