What should you know about influenza infection?

An influenza infection is a contagious viral illness of the respiratory tract that can cause sudden symptoms and occasional complications. It is different from a common cold, although both can cause cough and tiredness.

Influenza can inflame the nose, throat, and airways. Common features include feverishness, chills, headache, muscle aches, cough, and fatigue. Some people have vomiting or diarrhoea, particularly children. Symptoms can make existing asthma, heart disease, diabetes, or other conditions harder to control. A diagnosis may be based on the illness pattern and examination; testing is not needed in every situation.

Rest, drink enough to pass urine regularly, and use suitable fever or pain relief according to a clinician or pharmacist’s advice. Stay home when acutely unwell, keep distance from vulnerable people, cover coughs, and clean hands. Ask for medical advice early if you are pregnant, an older adult, immunocompromised, or have a long-term condition, because treatment decisions may depend on personal risk and symptom timing.

Get urgent care for difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain, fainting, blue or grey lips, severe confusion, inability to drink, or marked dehydration. Arrange review if symptoms are worsening, unusually severe, or return after an apparent improvement. A worsening cough with breathing trouble may indicate pneumonia or another complication.

Ask whether your symptoms fit influenza, whether testing or antiviral treatment is appropriate, how to protect household members, and which changes should lead to urgent assessment.