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What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Flu?

Those who are sick with flu may show a variety of symptoms that include fever, cough, sore throat chills, fatigue, headache, muscle aches, eye pain, runny nose, and chest pain. Nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain may be present, more often in children than adults. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also lists a number of emergency warning signs of flu that indicate immediate medical attention.

Though it is mild for most people, flu can lead to complications, some of which are severe and life-threatening. There are certain groups of people who are at higher risk of developing these complications.

There are other respiratory illnesses that can look similar to flu. These include the common cold (caused by a variety of viruses), strep throat, and infections by respiratory syncytial virus, parainfluenza virus, and adenovirus. What is known as "stomach flu" is caused by different viruses that are not related to influenza viruses.

How Can I Fight the Flu?

The CDC urges you to "Take 3" Actions to fight the flu:

Take time to get a flu vaccine
Take everyday preventive actions to stop the spread of germs (wash hands, cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue, stay home when sick, etc.)
Take flu antiviral drugs if your doctor prescribes them

Do I Need An Annual Flu Vaccination?

The CDC and the American Academy of Pediatrics recommend annual flu vaccination for everyone 6 months and older. A vaccination is needed annually for two reasons: 1) influenza viruses mutate as they spread, which can make them unrecognizable to the immune system; and 2) protection provided by flu vaccination declines over time.

Dr. Offit Answers the Question: "When Should I Get the Flu Vaccine?" (Children's Hospital of Philadelphia 10/30/2019)
Vaccine Information Statements: Inactivated | Live Attenuated
Find locations offering flu vaccinations near you: HealthMap Vaccine Finder

What To Do If I Am Sick With the Flu?

If someone is experiencing emergency warning signs of influenza, seek medical attention right away.
CDC Materials:

Sick With Flu? Know What To Do!

The Flu: What To Do If You Get Sick

Is Flu Active in West Virginia?

See our Data and Surveillance page for more information on current flu activity in West Virginia. You can also see the CDC's flu activity map to see how widespread flu is in all U.S. states and territories. You can even stay up to date on international activity by checking out the World Health Organization's reports!

Additional Resources: