Flu (influenza)

Influenza (the flu) is caused by a virus. Flu symptoms include high fever, chills and sweating, sore throat, weakness, headache, muscle and joint pains and a cough. Treatment includes bed rest, paracetamol and drinking plenty of fluids. Immunisation can protect vulnerable people from the flu. Older people and those with an underlying medical condition are more likely to develop serious complications including secondary bacterial pneumonia, primary influenza pneumonia and inflammation of the brain or heart. 

Flu versus the common cold 
The flu is more than a bad cold. Cold symptoms last one to two days while the flu can last up to a week. The flu causes a high fever. A cold sometimes causes a mild fever. Muscular pains and shivering attacks occur with the flu but not with a cold. Colds cause a runny nose, while the flu usually starts with a dry sensation in the nose and throat. 

Where to get help 
Your doctor 
Nurse on Call Tel. 1300 60 60 24 – for expert health information and advice (24 hours, 7 days) 
Your local hospital 

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