Dry cough after flu: what should you know?

Flu can inflame the lining of the airways. Even after fever and body aches improve, the cough reflex may remain easily triggered by talking, cold air or activity. A post-viral cough is often dry, although a small amount of mucus can occur during recovery.

A new or worsening fever, chest pain, increasing breathlessness or a marked change in the cough can signal another problem, such as acute bronchitis or a chest infection. Asthma, reflux and allergic rhinitis can also keep a cough going, so the timing of symptoms matters.

Take regular fluids, rest when tired and avoid smoke, vaping and strong fragrances. Warm drinks or honey for adults and children over one year may soothe the throat; never give honey to a child under one year. Gentle activity can be resumed as energy returns, but stop if coughing or breathlessness becomes pronounced.

Use medicines only as directed on the label or by a pharmacist. Tell the pharmacist about pregnancy, long-term conditions and regular medicines. Antibiotics do not treat viral flu itself, and a clinician should decide whether a later complication needs treatment.

Contact a clinician if symptoms are getting worse rather than gradually easing, fever returns, you cough blood, or you develop chest pain, dehydration or unusual weakness. Seek emergency help for severe breathing difficulty, confusion, fainting or blue or grey lips.

Ask whether your chest needs examination, whether asthma or reflux could be contributing, and which cough medicines are safe with your current treatment. Bring the date the flu symptoms began and describe any fever that returned.