How to Treat or Cure Influenza

Most people with flu get better in about a week with rest and care. A few need medicine or hospital care.

For most healthy people

• Rest and stay home
• Plenty of fluids and light food
• Paracetamol for fever and aches
• Saline nasal drops, warm drinks and gargles

Antiviral treatment

• A doctor may prescribe oseltamivir or a similar antiviral.
• It is most useful if started within 48 hours, but may still help later in severe illness.
• It is advised for high-risk people, those who are very sick or in hospital.

High-risk groups should call a doctor early

• Pregnant women
• Children under 5
• Adults aged 65 and over
• People with asthma, diabetes, heart, lung, kidney or liver disease, or weak immunity

Treating complications

• Pneumonia may need antibiotics, oxygen or hospital care.
• Flares of asthma or heart disease need adjustment of their treatment.

What does not work

• Antibiotics for uncomplicated flu
• Aspirin for children or teenagers, which is unsafe

Recovery

Return to normal activity gradually. Fatigue and cough can last for 1 to 2 weeks.

Complementary care

Warm fluids, rest and Ayurvedic lifestyle advice may support comfort. They do not replace vaccination or antiviral treatment.

Emergency signs (call 112 or 102)

Difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion, bluish lips, seizures or severe dehydration.

Key point

Rest and fluids for most. Early medical care for high-risk people and for warning signs.

Before your appointment

Note when symptoms began, your highest temperature, and any cough, breathing trouble or vomiting. List your medicines, long-term conditions, pregnancy, allergies and recent vaccines, including this year's flu vaccine. Mention contact with anyone who is ill. Ask about testing, antivirals, when to return to work or school and the warning signs that mean you should call 112 or 102.