Published on Sep 26, 2023 | 4:05 PM
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The flu, or influenza, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It primarily affects the nose, throat, and lungs and can range from mild to severe. Unlike the common cold, the flu often begins suddenly and can cause significant systemic symptoms.
Seasonal flu occurs every year and can affect people of all ages. While many recover without complications, the flu can be serious, especially for older adults, young children, pregnant individuals, and people with chronic medical conditions.
Flu symptoms typically appear 1 to 4 days after exposure and often start abruptly.
Common symptoms include:
Fever or feeling feverish
Chills
Muscle or body aches
Fatigue or weakness
Headache
Cough
Sore throat
Runny or stuffy nose
Some people, especially children, may also experience nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea.
The flu spreads through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. It can also spread by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touching the mouth, nose, or eyes.
People are typically most contagious in the first 3 to 4 days after symptoms begin, though some may spread the virus before symptoms appear.
can cause seasonal outbreaks alongside occasional pandemics. (5)
The flu may be diagnosed based on symptoms and clinical evaluation. In some cases, rapid flu testing may be used to confirm the diagnosis, especially when treatment decisions depend on test results.
Testing is most useful early in the illness, particularly for individuals at higher risk of complications.
Treatment depends on symptom severity, duration, and individual risk factors.
Many cases of the flu are managed with supportive care, including rest, fluids, and fever control. Antiviral medications, such as oseltamivir, may be prescribed for certain individuals, especially when started within 48 hours of symptom onset.
Antivirals can help shorten illness duration and reduce the risk of complications but are not necessary for every person with the flu.
Most healthy individuals recover from the flu within one to two weeks. However, untreated flu can lead to complications such as pneumonia, sinus infections, worsening of chronic medical conditions, or hospitalization.
Prompt treatment and monitoring are important for people at higher risk of severe illness.
Medical care is recommended if flu symptoms are severe, worsening, or not improving after several days. Urgent care is needed for difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion, persistent high fever, or dehydration.
Children, older adults, pregnant individuals, and people with chronic conditions should seek care early if flu symptoms develop.
Call-On-Doc offers convenient, reliable care for the flu through telehealth.
With a virtual visit, you can discuss symptoms with a licensed provider, determine whether antiviral treatment is appropriate, and receive guidance on recovery — without an in-person clinic visit.
Healthcare that fits your life — not your calendar.
English graduate and Call-On-Doc’s medical resource guide, Wayne C. Hahne is an experienced and passionate medical education content expert. Through diligent research, provider interviews and utilizing the industry's leading resources for wellness information, it is Mr. Hahne’s personal mission to educate the general public on medical conditions with in-depth and easy-to-understand written guides. updated 1/26/2026 Shelly House, FNP, is a Family Nurse Practitioner and Call-On-Doc’s trusted medical education voice. With extensive experience in telehealth and patient-centered care, Ms. House is dedicated to making complex health topics simple and accessible. Through evidence-based content, provider collaboration, and a passion for empowering patients, her mission is to break down barriers to healthcare by delivering clear, compassionate, and practical medical guidance.
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