What are the treatment options for influenza?

Influenza is a viral infection, so treatment is usually supportive rather than an antibiotic. Rest, regular fluids, and suitable medicine for fever or aches can make the illness easier to manage. A clinician considers the timing and severity of symptoms, your age, pregnancy, and medical conditions when deciding whether prescription antiviral treatment should be discussed.

A GP consultation can assess your symptoms and breathing, while a telemedicine consultation may be useful when you are too unwell to travel or need advice about next steps. Remote assessment cannot replace urgent in-person care when breathing or alertness is affected.

Rest, drink fluids regularly, and follow the label directions for any fever or pain medicine. Avoid doubling up products that contain the same ingredient. Stay home while you have a fever or feel acutely unwell, wash your hands, and limit close contact with people who could become seriously ill.

Contact a clinician early if symptoms are severe, worsening, or affecting a long-term condition. Ask about antiviral treatment rather than sharing someone else's medicine. Antibiotics do not treat influenza itself, though a clinician may assess for a separate bacterial infection if your course changes.

Get urgent medical help for difficulty breathing, chest pain, blue or grey lips, severe dehydration, confusion, fainting, or a seizure. Seek prompt advice if fever persists, symptoms improve and then sharply worsen, or you are pregnant, elderly, immunocompromised, or living with a significant chronic condition.

Ask whether your symptoms fit influenza, whether antiviral medicine is suitable, which symptom medicines are safe with your regular treatment, and how long to stay away from work or school. Confirm which warning signs should prompt an urgent review.