Flu and vomiting

Influenza mainly affects the airways, so fever, aches, headache, and cough are common features. Some people also feel nauseated or vomit. Vomiting with diarrhoea is more suggestive of Gastroenteritis, while a shared meal followed by sudden illness may suggest Food Poisoning.

Other causes include Migraine, medication effects, and abdominal problems such as Gallstones or Pancreatitis. Severe headache with neck stiffness, light sensitivity, confusion, or a rash needs urgent assessment because Meningitis is a medical emergency.

Take frequent small sips of water or an oral rehydration drink. If you vomit, pause briefly and restart with smaller amounts rather than drinking a large volume at once. Once fluids stay down, try plain foods in modest portions and avoid alcohol.

Wash hands carefully and avoid preparing food for others while actively unwell. Do not take anti-vomiting or anti-inflammatory medicines without checking that they are suitable for your age, pregnancy status, and medical conditions.

Get urgent help if you cannot keep fluids down, pass very little urine, become unusually sleepy or confused, vomit blood or green fluid, or develop severe abdominal pain. Babies, older adults, pregnant people, and those with significant medical conditions can become dehydrated quickly and should receive advice early.

Tell the clinician when vomiting began, how often it occurs, whether diarrhoea or fever is present, and what you have managed to drink. Ask whether you need testing, prescription treatment, or a plan for preventing dehydration.