Flu Treatment Online
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Guide for
Flu Treatment Online
By Medical Editor:
Dr. Francesco-Maria Serino, MD, PhD
September, 2024
Summary
The flu (influenza) is a contagious respiratory infection caused by Influenza A and Influenza B viruses. It spreads through droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, and via contaminated surfaces. Flu season typically runs from October to March in the Northern Hemisphere and April to September in the Southern Hemisphere.
Flu symptoms include fever, dry cough, sore throat, muscle aches, fatigue, and nasal congestion. Symptoms appear suddenly and usually last 3 to 7 days, though recovery may take up to two weeks. Certain groups, such as older adults and those with chronic illnesses, are at higher risk for complications like pneumonia or myocarditis (heart inflammation).
The incubation period is 1 to 4 days, and individuals are contagious from one day before symptoms to about 5 to 7 days after they begin.
Annual flu vaccination is the most effective prevention method, updated yearly to match the most common virus strains. Antiviral medications like oseltamivir (Tamiflu) and zanamivir (Relenza) can reduce the duration and severity of symptoms if taken within 48 hours of onset, especially in high-risk individuals.
In addition to vaccination, good hygiene practices, like regular handwashing, can help prevent the spread of the flu.
What is the flu?
The flu, short for influenza, is an acute respiratory illness caused by the Influenza virus. There are two main types of flu viruses that affect humans: Influenza A and Influenza B. These viruses spread easily through droplets in the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. You can also catch the flu by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes.
When is the flu season across the world?
The Influenza virus causes seasonal flu, which typically peaks in the colder months. In the Northern Hemisphere, flu season usually runs from October to March. In the Southern Hemisphere, the season typically spans from April to September. In tropical regions, Influenza virus transmission can occur year-round but often peaks during the rainy season.
What is the flu incubation period?
The incubation period for the flu, which is the time between exposure to the Influenza virus and the onset of flu symptoms, typically ranges from 1 to 4 days, with an average of 2 days. This short incubation period explains how quickly the virus can spread, especially in crowded settings.
Did you know that...
One of the more severe complications of influenza is its ability to make people susceptible to bacterial coinfections, especially bacterial pneumonia. This often happens after a person seems to be recovering from the flu, only to experience a sudden relapse of fever and other symptoms. Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pneumoniae are common bacteria involved .
Flu symptoms in adults
Common flu symptoms in adults include:
- Abrupt onset of fever
- Nonproductive cough (dry cough)
- Myalgia (muscle pain)
- Malaise (general discomfort)
- Sore throat
- Nasal congestion
- Headache In some cases, adults may experience nausea. It’s important to note that gastrointestinal symptoms, such as vomiting and diarrhea, are more common in children than adults.
How long does the flu last?
For most adults, flu symptoms last about 3 to 7 days, with the most severe symptoms occurring in the first 3 days. Complete recovery from the flu may take 10 to 14 days, although older adults and those with weakened immune systems may experience lingering symptoms like fatigue for several weeks.
How long is the flu contagious?
People infected with the Influenza virus are typically contagious one day before symptoms develop and can remain contagious for 5 to 7 days after becoming sick. Those with weakened immune systems or severe illness may be contagious for a longer period.
Common flu medications
Oseltamivir
capsules
Zanamivir
powder for inhalation
Flu medicine (Flu treatment)
Most cases of the flu can be managed with rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medications for symptom relief.
The flu is more than just a cold—its symptoms are often more intense and can lead to complications, especially in older adults, young children, and people with underlying health conditions.
Antiviral medication for flu, such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu), zanamivir, and baloxavir, can help reduce the severity and duration of flu symptoms. These medications are most effective when taken within the first 48 hours of symptom onset. They are particularly recommended for high-risk individuals, such as the elderly and those with chronic health conditions.
Cold vs Flu
While both the common cold and flu are respiratory infections, the flu tends to be more severe. Flu symptoms usually appear suddenly and include fever, body aches, and significant fatigue, whereas colds tend to have milder symptoms like runny nose and sneezing without the extreme fatigue and body aches.
Flu vs COVID
Both flu and COVID-19 are viral respiratory infections that can share symptoms like fever, cough, and fatigue. However, COVID-19 more commonly causes loss of taste or smell, and gastrointestinal symptoms may be more frequent compared to the flu. Diagnostic testing is essential to distinguish between the two illnesses.
Flu complications
Flu complications can be mild or serious, and they tend to affect certain groups more, like older adults, young children, and people with chronic health conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease. Here are some of the most common and serious complications that can arise from the flu:
1. Pneumonia: This is the most frequent complication. It can happen when the flu virus affects the lungs or when a bacterial infection develops after you’ve started to feel better. You might find that your symptoms improve, then suddenly worsen again, which can be a sign of pneumonia.
2. Worsening of Chronic Conditions: If you already have conditions like asthma, COPD, or heart disease, the flu can make these worse, sometimes making it harder to breathe or manage your symptoms.
3. Heart Inflammation (Myocarditis): Although rare, the flu can sometimes cause inflammation of the heart, known as myocarditis. If this happens, it can lead to heart problems or even heart failure if untreated.
4. Neurological Issues: The flu can also cause issues in the brain, leading to things like seizures, brain inflammation (encephalitis), or Guillain-Barré syndrome, a rare condition where the body attacks its own nerves, causing weakness or even paralysis.
5. Severe Breathing Problems: In some cases, the flu can cause respiratory failure or conditions like acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), where the lungs can’t provide enough oxygen for the body.
6. Death: In the most severe cases, especially in vulnerable groups, flu complications can be life-threatening, often due to pneumonia or multi-organ failure.
The best way to avoid these complications is by getting your flu shot every year and, if you do get sick, seeking early treatment with antiviral medications.
Flu prevention
The best way to prevent the flu is by getting an annual flu vaccine or flu shot, which is designed to protect against the most common strains of the Influenza virus circulating each season. Other preventive measures include:
- Washing hands frequently with soap and water
- Avoiding close contact with sick individuals
- Covering your mouth when coughing or sneezing
How can Doctorsa Virtual Care help with a new bout of the flu?
Doctorsa Virtual Care can provide timely support during a flu recurrence by offering convenient access to medical professionals without leaving your hotel or BnB. Through virtual consultations, doctors can evaluate your flu symptoms, recommend the appropriate flu treatment, and even prescribe antiviral medications like oseltamivir or zanamivir if necessary. Additionally, they can provide guidance on flu prevention, including advice on getting the flu shot or managing symptoms to prevent the spread of the Influenza virus. With virtual care, you can get professional medical advice quickly, without the hassle of traveling while feeling unwell in a foreign city. This helps you manage your flu symptoms effectively and reduces the risk of complications.
References
Weidinger S, Bieber T, Cork MJ, et al. Safety and efficacy of amlitelimab, a fully human nondepleting, noncytotoxic anti-OX40 ligand monoclonal antibody, in atopic dermatitis: results of a phase IIa randomized placebo-controlled trial. Br J Dermatol 2023; 189:531.
Simpson EL, Reich K, et al. An anti-OX40 antibody to treat moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis: a multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase 2b study. Lancet 2023; 401:204.
Totté JE, van der Feltz WT, Hennekam M, et al. Prevalence and odds of Staphylococcus aureus carriage in atopic dermatitis: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Br J Dermatol 2016; 175:687.
Tauber M, Balica S, Hsu CY, et al. Staphylococcus aureus density on lesional and nonlesional skin is strongly associated with disease severity in atopic dermatitis. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2016; 137:1272.
How does it work?
99% of our users solve their issue within 1 hour. No waiting, no language barriers, no insurance needed.
Answer a few questions
Just answer a few questions about your flu symptoms and choose a convenient time for your online session. It’s simple and hassle-free, with no need to sign up.
Select and connect
Doctors respond in minutes. Select your preferred one and start your virtual consultation right from your web browser.
7-day free follow-up chat
Reach out to your doctor with any questions you might have, at no extra cost for 7 days following your consultation.
How does it work?
99% of our users solve their issue within 1 hour. No waiting, no language barriers, no insurance needed.
Answer a few questions
Just answer a few questions about your flu symptoms and choose a convenient time for your online session. It’s simple and hassle-free, with no need to sign up.
Select and connect
Doctors respond in minutes. Select your preferred one and start your virtual consultation right from your web browser.
7-day free follow-up chat
Reach out to your doctor with any questions you might have, at no extra cost for 7 days following your consultation.
Your questions answered
What are 4 symptoms of the flu?
Common symptoms include abrupt onset of fever, nonproductive cough, muscle aches (myalgia), and headache. Other possible symptoms are sore throat, malaise (feeling unwell), nasal congestion, and nausea.
What are the five stages of flu?
The flu progresses in several stages:
Incubation: This period lasts 1 to 4 days, during which the virus multiplies without symptoms.
Initial symptoms: Abrupt onset of fever, fatigue, and muscle aches (day 1).
Peak symptoms: Cough, congestion, and worsening symptoms (days 2 to 4).
Resolution: Symptoms start to improve, particularly fever (days 5 to 7).
Recovery: Some fatigue or cough may linger for up to two weeks.
How long is flu contagious?
Individuals with the flu are generally contagious from 1 day before symptoms start and can remain contagious for up to 7 days after becoming sick.
Is flu A or B worse?
Both influenza A and B can cause severe illness, but influenza A is typically associated with more severe outbreaks and pandemics. On the other hand, influenza B tends to cause milder outbreaks, though both can lead to significant flu symptoms depending on the individual and the flu season.
How long does a flu last?
Most people recover from the flu within 10 to 14 days, but the exact flu duration can vary. Some may experience lingering symptoms like fatigue even after major flu symptoms subside, especially in older adults or those with weakened immune systems.
How to get rid of flu fast?
While there’s no cure for the flu, flu treatment focuses on symptom management. Getting plenty of rest, staying hydrated, and using over-the-counter medications to reduce fever and pain can help. Antiviral medications, such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu), can shorten the flu’s duration if taken within the first 48 hours of symptom onset, speeding up the flu recovery process.
How many days off work for flu?
Most people should stay home from work for at least 3 to 5 days after flu symptoms begin. However, flu recovery varies, and some may need up to 7 days, especially if symptoms like fatigue or body aches persist.
What kills the flu virus in the body?
The body’s immune response plays the most crucial role in eliminating the flu virus. Antiviral medications can help by reducing the viral load, but ultimately it’s the immune system that clears the infection. Strengthening your immune response through rest and flu treatment can support a faster recovery.
What day is the flu the worst?
Flu symptoms are usually at their peak during the first 3 to 4 days of illness, with day 2 or 3 often being the worst. Fever, muscle aches, and fatigue tend to be most intense during this time before gradually improving.
Can you be around someone with the flu and not get it?
It’s possible to avoid catching the flu, even if you’ve been exposed, by practicing good hygiene and getting the flu vaccine. However, close contact without precautions like handwashing or wearing a mask significantly increases your risk of contracting the flu virus.
What is the timeline of flu symptoms?
Flu symptoms typically begin suddenly with fever, body aches, and fatigue. These symptoms usually peak within 2 to 3 days, with the flu duration lasting about 7 to 10 days. During flu recovery, some people may continue to feel tired or weak even after the main symptoms resolve.
What kind of flu is going around?
Each flu season, different strains of influenza viruses circulate. The most common types are influenza A, which often includes subtypes like H1N1 and H3N2, and influenza B. Staying updated on flu vaccines can help with flu prevention during the flu season
How does Doctorsa work?
Open the intake form and choose one of the following options:
- Urgent Care: For immediate treatment of your Bacterial Vaginosis via virtual care.
- Set Up an Appointment: To schedule a same-day or future appointment.
- Prescription Refill: Use this option if you have lost or forgotten your medication.
Next, select how you would like to receive appointment offers from doctors.
We recommend using WhatsApp as it is faster and more reliable. You will quickly receive various visit options. Choose the one that suits you best and proceed to online payment.
Video visits are browser-based, so no apps are needed. Simply click the link you receive to start your video visit in your browser.
After the consultation, expect to receive an invoice and an e-prescription via email. You can show or print the e-prescription to purchase medication at the pharmacy of your choice.
How do I get a prescription from an online doctor?
Following the consultation, the doctor will either email the e-prescription to you or send it via WhatsApp. You can then either print it out or show it directly to the pharmacist when purchasing the medication.
It’s important to understand that doctors must responsibly evaluate each case individually. They can’t simply prescribe medication solely based on a patient’s request or a recommendation from another doctor without confirming that it’s suitable for the patient’s specific condition.
How much does it cost?
The total cost may differ based on the providers. Each one competes for your request, offering a fair price tailored to your needs. On average, an online doctor visit costs 25 Euros. Prices for in-person appointments, specialists, and lab work vary by city. You can send a request to learn more—there’s no commitment to book, and you can select your provider.
Please note that the visit fee doesn’t cover medication expenses, but common antibiotics are quite affordable in Europe. The cost of antibiotic treatment typically ranges from 5 to 15 euros approximately.
Are doctors available on weekends?
Yes, whenever you submit your request it is instantly received by the doctors active at that time. Whether it’s late at night, on a Sunday morning, or on New Year’s Eve, there’s always someone on the other side who’s ready to see you. When you receive an option for an appointment, there’s a person behind it (a doctor) who’s read your request and is willing to assist you.
Can I contact the doctor for follow-up questions after the consultation?
You can message your physician with follow-up questions at no additional cost for up to 7 days after the video visit.
