Influenza

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on May 4, 2025.

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Influenza (the flu) is a viral infection of the lungs and airways. The virus spreads through droplets in the air when someone with flu coughs or sneezes. You may also get the virus through close contact with someone who has the flu. For example, a person with the virus on his or her hands can spread it by shaking hands with someone. You may spread the flu to others for 1 week or longer after signs or symptoms appear.

DISCHARGE INSTRUCTIONS:

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:

• You have trouble breathing, and your lips look purple or blue.
• You have a seizure.

Seek care immediately if:

• You are dizzy, or you are urinating less or not at all.
• You have a headache with a stiff neck, and you feel tired or confused.
• You have new pain or pressure in your chest.
• Your symptoms, such as shortness of breath, vomiting, or diarrhea, get worse.
• Your symptoms, such as fever and coughing, seem to get better, but then get worse.

Call your doctor if:

• You have new muscle pain or weakness.
• You have questions or concerns about your condition or care.

Medicines:

You may need any of the following:

• Acetaminophen decreases pain and fever. It is available without a doctor's order. Ask how much to take and how often to take it. Follow directions. Read the labels of all other medicines you are using to see if they also contain acetaminophen, or ask your doctor or pharmacist. Acetaminophen can cause liver damage if not taken correctly.
• NSAIDs , such as ibuprofen, help decrease swelling, pain, and fever. This medicine is available with or without a doctor's order. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems in certain people. If you take blood thinner medicine, always ask your healthcare provider if NSAIDs are safe for you. Always read the medicine label and follow directions.
• Antivirals help treat viral infections.
• Take your medicine as directed. Contact your healthcare provider if you think your medicine is not helping or if you have side effects. Tell your provider if you are allergic to any medicine. Keep a list of the medicines, vitamins, and herbs you take. Include the amounts, and when and why you take them. Bring the list or the pill bottles to follow-up visits. Carry your medicine list with you in case of an emergency.

Drugs used to treat this and similar conditions

Treatment options

The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.

• Tamiflu
• Coricidin HBP Cold & Flu
• oseltamivir
• Relenza
• Xofluza

View more treatment options

Rest

as much as you can to help you recover.

Drink liquids as directed

to help prevent dehydration. Ask how much liquid to drink each day and which liquids are best for you.

Gargle with warm salt water

to soothe your sore throat. Your healthcare provider may also recommend throat lozenges or sprays.

Use a cool mist humidifier

or vaporizer to ease your breathing and unplug your nose.

Prevent the spread of germs:

• Wash your hands often. Wash your hands several times each day. Wash after you use the bathroom, change a child's diaper, and before you prepare or eat food. Use soap and water every time. Rub your soapy hands together, lacing your fingers. Wash the front and back of your hands, and in between your fingers. Use the fingers of one hand to scrub under the fingernails of the other hand. Wash for at least 20 seconds. Rinse with warm, running water for several seconds. Then dry your hands with a clean towel or paper towel. Use hand sanitizer that contains alcohol if soap and water are not available. Do not touch your eyes, nose, or mouth without washing your hands first.
• Cover a sneeze or cough. Use a tissue that covers your mouth and nose. Throw the tissue away in a trash can right away. Use the bend of your arm if a tissue is not available. Wash your hands well with soap and water or use hand sanitizer.
• Stay home if you are sick. Avoid crowds during the first 1 to 4 days of illness.
• Ask about vaccines you may need. Your healthcare provider can tell you if you should also get vaccines not listed below:
  • Get the flu vaccine as soon as recommended. The vaccine is usually available each year starting in September or October. Flu viruses change, so it is important to get a flu vaccine every year.
  • Ask your healthcare provider about the pneumonia vaccine. The vaccine is recommended for all adults aged 50 or older to prevent pneumococcal disease, such as pneumonia. Adults aged 19 to 49 years who are at high risk for pneumococcal disease should also receive the vaccine. You may need 1 dose or 2. The number depends on the vaccine used and your risk factors.
  • COVID-19 vaccines are given to adults as a shot. At least 1 dose of an updated vaccine is recommended for all adults. COVID-19 vaccines are updated throughout the year. Adults 65 or older need a second dose of updated vaccine at least 4 months after the first dose. Your healthcare provider can help you schedule all needed doses as updated vaccines become available.

Follow up with your doctor as directed:

Write down your questions so you remember to ask them during your visits.

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The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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