Seasonal flu

Flu is an illness caused by the influenza virus. It occurs every year, usually in winter. It is important that you protect yourself and others from flu by helping to prevent the spread of the virus and getting the flu vaccine if you are eligible.

How flu is spread

The flu virus is spread in the small droplets of saliva coughed or sneezed into the air by an infected person. If you breathe in these droplets, you may become infected.

Flu can also spread if someone infected with the virus:

touches common surfaces such as door handles with unwashed hands
touches the hand of someone else without washing their hands first

Preventing the spread of the flu virus

You can take simple steps to help stop the spread of the flu virus. Remember, you should always:

carry tissues
use tissues to cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze
dispose of the dirty tissues quickly
wash your hands regularly
The importance of hand hygiene
Hygiene advice - Flu Aware NI website

Flu symptoms

The symptoms of flu often start suddenly and include:

fever
fatigue/unusual tiredness
headache
runny nose
sore throat
shortness of breath or a cough
loss of appetite
aching muscles
vomiting or diarrhoea

Flu symptoms usually peak after two or three days and you should begin to feel much better within five to eight days. However, elderly people or those with certain medical conditions may develop complications that can lead to serious illness and can be life threatening. That is why it is important to get the seasonal flu vaccine if it is offered to you.

Flu vaccination

What to do if you have flu

It is important to remember that for most people, flu is a mild illness that can be treated at home with rest, drinking plenty of fluids and taking medicine, such as paracetamol, as directed to control the symptoms.

If symptoms don’t improve within two to three days, or if you have a high temperature and breathing difficulties, you should contact your GP or the GP out-of-hours service.

Out of hours service

You should not attend an A&E department unless it is urgent and essential.

How to use your health services

If you are pregnant or considered high-risk, you should call your doctor if you suspect you might have flu. High risk groups can be found at the page below: