Influenza and other respiratory viruses

Influenza, along with other viruses that affect the nose, throat and lungs, may cause fever, chills, cough, headache, fatigue and feeling generally unwell. Symptoms alone cannot reliably identify which virus is responsible. A test can support a diagnosis, while an examination helps assess breathing and hydration. Influenza may sometimes contribute to pneumonia, but a cough or fever does not by itself establish that complication.

Rest, drink fluids and choose symptom medicines only after checking that they are appropriate for you. Keep distance from people at higher risk while you are acutely ill, improve ventilation, cover coughs and wash hands. Follow local testing or workplace advice when relevant. Contact a clinician early if you are pregnant, have significant medical conditions or take immune-suppressing treatment, since the useful treatment options depend on the virus and the timing.

Arrange urgent care for severe breathlessness, chest pain, confusion, fainting, blue or grey lips, or inability to maintain fluids. Seek medical advice if symptoms steadily worsen, improve and then become worse again, or leave you unusually weak. Children and adults with heart, lung or immune conditions may need assessment sooner, even when the first symptoms seem mild.

Ask whether testing would change treatment, how to protect household members, when to return to usual activities, and which changes mean you should be examined.