Influenza cough: what to know and how to manage it

Influenza can irritate the airways, causing a dry or productive cough. It commonly occurs alongside fever, chills, headache, tiredness, and a general feeling of being unwell. A cough can linger because airway inflammation settles gradually, even when the fever has eased. Cough alone cannot confirm influenza, and a cough may also occur with other infections. Read more about Influenza and Cough.

Rest and drink regularly to reduce dehydration and soothe a dry throat. Warm fluids, honey for adults and children old enough to take it, and humidified air may ease irritation. Avoid smoke and close exposure to others while you are unwell; cover coughs and wash your hands. A pharmacist can help you choose a cough product that fits your age, pregnancy status, and other medicines. Do not give children adult preparations.

Seek urgent medical help for difficult or fast breathing, chest pain, blue or grey lips, confusion, severe weakness, or inability to keep fluids down. Arrange prompt assessment if the cough becomes markedly worse, you cough blood, or fever returns after improving, because a complication such as Pneumonia may need treatment.

Could another infection explain this cough? Which cough medicines are suitable with my current treatment? What changes in breathing or fever should prompt a review?