What should you know about influenza precautions?

Flu viruses can pass between people when an infected person coughs, sneezes, talks, or leaves virus on hands and shared surfaces. Symptoms such as fever, chills, cough, headache, fatigue, and feeling generally unwell can occur together, although not everyone has every symptom. Staying home while you feel acutely ill helps limit exposure, especially for older adults, infants, pregnant people, and those with long-term health conditions.

Wash your hands regularly with soap and water, or use hand sanitiser when washing is not available. Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow, dispose of tissues promptly, and avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. Improve ventilation where possible, avoid close contact with vulnerable people while unwell, and do not share cups, utensils, or towels. Follow local clinical advice about vaccination and antiviral treatment when these are offered for your situation.

Arrange medical advice if symptoms are worsening, you are struggling to keep fluids down, or you have a condition that increases the risk of complications. Seek urgent help for trouble breathing, chest pain, new confusion, fainting, severe weakness, or blue or grey lips. A clinician should assess a new or worsening cough with breathing difficulty because influenza can be followed by pneumonia.

Ask whether your symptoms fit influenza, whether you need testing or treatment, and how long you should avoid close contact. Mention pregnancy, chronic illness, immune problems, regular medicines, and any recent exposure so advice can be tailored.