Do you have Flu? Symptoms and advice

Do you have Flu? Symptoms and advice. Flu is an acute respiratory illness, which usually causes high fever, severe weakness and fatigue. It makes you feel very sick, more than a normal cold.

A common cold is a milder, though uncomfortable illness. The symptoms of colds and flu are compared below:

Flu symptoms include:

• Sudden onset of symptoms
• High fever - temperature over 38ºC/100.4ºF
• Severe weakness and fatigue
• Dry cough
• Aching muscles and joints
• Sore throat
• Headache
• Runny nose
• Vomiting / diarrhoea

Common Cold symptoms include:

• Sneezing
• A blocked nose, or a runny nose
• Pain when swallowing
• Mild fever - temperature between 37 and 38.3°C or 98.6 and 101.0°F
• Mild earache
• Tiredness
• Headache
• Coughing

What are the symptoms of Influenza A(H1N1)?

The symptoms are like those of regular seasonal flu and include: fever that starts suddenly, cough, sore throat, runny nose, headache and muscle aches. Some people have vomiting and diarrhoea.

What should I do if I get sick?

If you get sick with a flu-like illness, phone the Flu Information Line on Freephone 1800 94 11 00.

This is availble 24 hours a day, and has detailed advice on symptoms and how to care for yourself or someone else at home.

Most people with flu are able to recover at home within a few days without needing anti-viral medicine or medical care.

If you have severe flu symptoms, or if you have a chronic illness, are pregnant, or are aged under 5 or over 65, Contact your GP/family doctor by telephone. They will decide if you need testing or treatment.

The HSE website has a Health Atlas service where you can find your nearest GP on a map, along with contact details.

Don't go to the doctor's surgery or to a Hospital emergency department, unless it is an emergency.

If you go to the doctor's office, and you have the flu, you are likely to spread it to other people there.

If you have symptoms of flu:

Cover your cough: Cover your nose and mouth with disposable tissues when sneezing, coughing, wiping and blowing your nose

Bin your tissues: Dispose of used tissues in the nearest waste bin

Wash your Hands: Wash your hands often with soap and water, and especially after coughing and sneezing. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.

Keep the house clean: Clean hard surfaces (e.g door handles) frequently using a normal cleaning product

Avoid contact with Flu: Try to avoid close contact with sick people

Home is the best Hospital: If you are sick with flu, stay at home to avoid spreading infection to others. Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth (© Independent News Services)

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