What to know about influenza in older adults

Influenza is a viral airway infection that may cause fever, cough, sore throat, aches, headache, fatigue and reduced appetite. In an older adult, the first clue may instead be new confusion, weakness, a fall, reduced mobility or a noticeable change in usual function.

Heart, lung, kidney and neurological conditions can make respiratory infections harder to manage. Dehydration, worsening breathlessness and loss of independence may develop quickly, even when fever is mild or absent.

Arrange clinical advice early, particularly if the person has long-term illness or takes several medicines. Encourage regular sips of fluid, rest, light meals if tolerated and a comfortable room temperature. Check breathing, alertness, urine output and the ability to take essential medicines.

Limit close contact while the person is unwell, improve ventilation and wash hands often. Ask a clinician about seasonal flu vaccination and an individual plan for future respiratory infections. Do not stop prescribed medicines or start antibiotics without medical guidance.

Seek emergency help for severe breathing difficulty, blue or grey lips, chest pain, collapse, new severe confusion, inability to wake, a seizure or signs of severe dehydration. Contact a clinician promptly for worsening cough or breathlessness, inability to eat or drink, a new fall, or a sudden decline in usual function.

Ask whether early antiviral treatment should be considered, how flu may interact with existing conditions or medicines, which home measurements matter, how to maintain hydration, and when a follow-up review is needed.