Influenza contagion: what to know

Influenza can pass when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks or touches a shared surface, then another person touches their eyes, nose or mouth. People may feel suddenly unwell with fever, chills, cough, headache, fatigue or body aches.

Symptoms can overlap with other respiratory infections. A cough or fever alone does not confirm influenza, and a person without obvious symptoms may still spread infection. The risk of transmission is greater during close indoor contact.

Stay home while fever or significant respiratory symptoms are present, and keep distance from older adults, infants and people with long-term health conditions. Cover coughs and sneezes, wash hands with soap, improve airflow and avoid sharing cups, towels or utensils.

Clean high-touch surfaces and consider a well-fitting mask when close contact cannot be avoided. Rest, drink fluids and use symptom relief that is suitable for you. Ask a clinician promptly about testing or treatment if you are at higher risk of complications.

Seek urgent help for difficulty breathing, chest pain, blue or grey lips, new confusion, severe weakness, dehydration or a fever that improves and then returns with worsening cough. These can signal a serious complication such as Pneumonia.

Contact a GP if symptoms are severe, prolonged, or worsening, or if you have a condition that raises the risk of complications. Mention when symptoms began and whether you have had close contact with someone with Influenza.

Ask how long to avoid close contact, whether antiviral treatment is appropriate, how to protect household members, and which warning signs require urgent review.