Flu (influenza)
Flu is a common viral infection that can make you feel very unwell. Most people recover at home in about a week, but it can be serious for some people, who are offered a free vaccine.
- Updated August 2026
- Clinical review pending
- 1 source
At a glance
- Flu comes on quickly and can make you feel very unwell.
- Most people recover at home with rest and fluids.
- A free NHS flu vaccine is offered to people at higher risk.
On this page (5 sections)
Overview
Flu (influenza) is a common viral infection. Unlike a cold, which comes on gradually and mainly affects the nose and throat, flu tends to come on quickly and can make you feel exhausted and unwell all over [1].
Symptoms
Symptoms can include a sudden high temperature, body aches, feeling very tired, a dry cough, a sore throat and a headache. It usually starts to improve within about a week [1].
What to do
Most people can look after themselves at home by resting, keeping warm, drinking plenty of fluids and taking paracetamol or ibuprofen if needed. Antibiotics do not help, because flu is caused by a virus [1].
Who is more at risk, and the vaccine
Flu can be more serious for some people, including those aged 65 and over, pregnant women, and people with certain long-term conditions. These groups are offered a free NHS flu vaccine each year [1].
When to get help
Contact a GP or NHS 111 if you are worried, if symptoms do not improve after about a week, or if you are in an at-risk group. Call 999 if you have sudden chest pain, difficulty breathing, or start coughing up blood [1].
Sources
- NHS. Flu (opens in new tab) Last reviewed 3 February 2026. Accessed 12 August 2026.
About this page
- Written by
- Consumer Health editorial team
- Medical review
- Pending — this page has not yet been reviewed by a named clinician. Read our medical review policy.
- Last updated
- August 2026
- Next review due
- August 2027
Important: This information is for general guidance only and does not replace professional medical advice. It is not intended to diagnose or treat any condition. Always speak to a qualified healthcare professional — such as your GP or pharmacist — for advice about your individual circumstances, and do not start, stop or change any prescribed treatment based only on this page. If you think you are having a medical emergency, call 999. Consumer Health is an independent health-information resource and is not the NHS or a government body.
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