When to Worry About Fever With Influenza

Most people with Influenza notice fever, chills, sweating, tiredness, headache, and muscle aches. A raised temperature is part of the body's response to infection and may come with a general feeling of being unwell. Fever alone does not show how serious the illness is, so consider breathing, alertness, hydration, and whether symptoms are improving.

Some people need earlier medical guidance, including young children, older adults, pregnant people, and those with long-term heart, lung, kidney, or immune conditions. Contact a clinician if you are unsure how influenza affects an existing illness or medicines.

Rest, drink regularly, and keep track of your temperature and other symptoms. Wear light clothing and avoid overheating. Use fever medicine only as directed on its label or by a clinician, and check that combination cold remedies do not contain the same ingredient. Do not give medicines intended for adults to a child without suitable advice.

Stay home while you feel unwell and reduce close contact with people who may become seriously ill. If you cannot keep fluids down, urinate much less than usual, or feel increasingly weak, arrange medical advice promptly.

Seek urgent help for trouble breathing, chest pain or pressure, blue or grey lips, new confusion, difficulty waking, a seizure, or severe weakness. Get prompt medical advice if fever improves and then returns with worse cough or breathlessness, or if you are deteriorating rather than gradually recovering.

For a baby or child, urgent assessment is needed for difficulty breathing, unusual sleepiness, poor feeding or drinking, a seizure, or a concerning change in behaviour. Follow local emergency guidance when symptoms are severe.

Ask whether your symptoms fit influenza, whether an antiviral or other treatment is appropriate, and which changes should trigger a review. Mention when the fever began, the highest reading you recorded, medicines taken, fluid intake, and any medical conditions or pregnancy.