How common are chills in influenza?

Chills may feel like shivering or an unusual cold sensation, even when your temperature is rising. They can come before, during, or after a fever and may come in waves. Influenza can also cause headache, muscle aches, marked fatigue, dry cough, and throat discomfort. Chills alone do not identify influenza because many infections and non-infectious causes can produce them; the pattern of symptoms, recent exposure, and examination help a clinician assess the cause.

Rest, drink fluids regularly, and wear light, comfortable layers that can be adjusted as your temperature changes. Check your temperature if you feel unwell and follow the label or a clinician's advice before using fever or pain medicine, especially if you have another medical condition or take regular medicines. Stay home while you are acutely unwell and reduce close contact with people who could become seriously ill. A clinician can advise whether testing or an antiviral treatment is appropriate, particularly if symptoms started recently or you have a higher risk of complications.

Seek urgent medical help for difficulty breathing, chest pain, new confusion, fainting, severe weakness, inability to keep fluids down, or signs of dehydration such as very little urine. Contact a clinician promptly if fever or chills are worsening, symptoms improve and then return strongly, or you are pregnant, older, immunocompromised, or living with a long-term condition. These warning signs need assessment because a serious complication or another infection may be present.

Ask whether your symptom pattern fits influenza, whether testing would change treatment, which medicines are suitable for you, and how long you should limit close contact. Mention when the chills began, whether you measured a fever, and any breathing changes.