What is flu?
Seasonal flu (also known as influenza) is a highly infectious illness caused by the flu virus.
The virus infects your lungs and upper airways, causing a sudden high temperature and general aches and pains.
Symptoms of flu
You may also lose your appetite, feel nauseous and have a dry cough. You may need to stay in bed until your symptoms get better. Symptoms can last for up to one week.
Flu vs Cold symptoms
|
SYMPTOMS |
SEASONAL FLU |
COLD |
|
Fever |
High fever lasts 3-4 days |
Rare |
|
Headache |
Prominent |
Rare |
|
General aches, pains |
Usual; often severe |
Slight |
|
Fatigue, weakness |
Can last up to 2-3 weeks |
Quite mild |
|
Extreme exhaustion |
Early and prominent |
Never |
|
Stuffy nose |
Sometimes |
Common |
|
Sneezing |
Sometimes |
Usual |
|
Sore throat |
Sometimes |
Common |
|
Chest discomfort, cough |
Common; can become severe |
Mild to moderate; hacking cough |
Pop into your local CarePlus Pharmacy if you are concerned and want to chat with one of our friendly pharmacists about what is best for you.
