Infection, Prevention and Control - Influenza (Flu)

You have been diagnosed with Influenza (‘Flu’). Flu is a viral infection of the airways (windpipe/throat).

You have been assessed by a nurse/doctor and are deemed well enough to go home. This leaflet gives you some information about ‘Flu’ & how to look after yourself at home.

Flu symptoms can be any one or combination of the following:

• Fever (Temperature of 38°C or above)
• Headache, muscle aches, tiredness
• Chills and shivers
• Sore throat and runny nose
• Cough

Flu commonly lasts for up to 7 days, but you may experience increased tiredness for up to 2 weeks.

Flu is very infectious!

Please follow the below recommendations to avoid spreading the virus to others:

• Wash your hands regularly and clean surfaces that you touch/use regularly
• Wear a mask/face covering to protect others wherever possible in indoor settings
• Use tissues when you cough and sneeze - please discard tissues appropriately in the bin
• Try to avoid crowded spaces and contact with other people who may be at risk
• Encourage your carers to have the Flu vaccine, especially if they are in a high risk group (see list – continued below)

Complications of Flu

Most people who are fit and well don’t develop any complications. However, unfortunately some people are at higher risk of suffering from complications (i.e. bronchitis or pneumonia)

People at higher risk are the ones who are/have:

• 65 years of age or older
• Pregnant
• Other medical conditions such as lung disease, heart disease, diabetes, kidney problems or liver disease
• Weaker immune system, have no spleen or living with HIV
• Undergone recent chemotherapy/radiotherapy for cancer
• Received organ or bone marrow transplant

How to get better from Flu

Most people with Flu get better on their own and don`t require hospital admission. Unfortunately antibiotics do not work against the Flu virus. We encourage you to:

• Stay home and try to rest as much as possible
• Drink plenty of fluids but try to avoid alcohol and caffeine
• Take regular pain relief such as Paracetamol and/or Ibuprofen which would help with your symptoms (unless you have been told not to use it)
• There is antiviral medication available for Flu, which can be prescribed by your doctor in certain circumstances

Not getting better or getting worse with Flu?

Contact your GP or call 111 if your symptoms get worse or last longer than 7 days. If you feel very unwell or experience any of the following:

• Chest pains generally, or chest pains when you are breathing
• If you experience sudden or worsening shortness of breath or you have increased wheezing
• You notice you are coughing up blood
• You experience severe dizziness on standing
• You have increased vomiting

Please attend your nearest Emergency Department (A&E) or call 999.