How to Protect Yourself From Seasonal Flu

Seasonal flu (influenza) is a common infection of the nose, throat and lungs. Worldwide, there are about 1 billion cases every year, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Most people get better on their own, but flu can be serious, and even deadly, for some groups. Here is how to lower your risk.

How does flu spread?

When a person with flu coughs, sneezes or talks, tiny droplets carrying the virus go into the air, and people nearby can breathe them in. The virus can also spread on hands, for example when you touch a surface and then your eyes, nose or mouth.

What are the symptoms of flu?

Symptoms usually start suddenly, 1 to 4 days after infection. They can include:

• Fever or chills (though not everyone gets a fever)
• A cough, usually dry
• Sore throat and runny or blocked nose
• Headache, and muscle and body aches
• Tiredness
• Vomiting and diarrhoea, more often in children

Most people recover within a week, but the cough can last 2 weeks or more.

Who is at higher risk?

• Pregnant women
• Children under 5
• Adults over 65
• People with long-term (chronic) illnesses
• People with a weak immune system
• Health workers, who are exposed more often

Should I get a flu vaccine?

Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent flu. WHO recommends a yearly flu vaccine for pregnant women, children aged 6 months to 5 years, adults over 65, people with long-term illnesses and health workers. Protection fades over time, so the vaccine needs to be repeated every year. Ask your doctor or local health centre whether the flu vaccine is right for you and where it is available.

What everyday habits help prevent flu?

• Wash your hands often with soap and water. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser if soap is not available.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, and throw the tissue away straight after.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Keep your distance from people who are sick.
• Clean surfaces that are touched often, like door handles and counters.
• Let fresh air in by opening windows where possible.

What should I do if I get flu?

Stay home from work, school and errands to avoid spreading it. Rest and drink plenty of fluids. You can return to normal activities once your symptoms have been improving overall for 24 hours and you have had no fever. People in high-risk groups should contact a doctor early, as prompt treatment can help.

When to see a doctor

Get emergency help straight away (call Rescue 1122 where available, or go to the nearest emergency department) if an adult has:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Ongoing pain or pressure in the chest or stomach
• Ongoing dizziness, confusion, or is hard to wake
• Seizures (fits)
• Not passing urine, severe muscle pain or severe weakness

For children, also watch for fast or difficult breathing, bluish lips or face, chest pain, signs of dehydration, not being alert, seizures, or a fever above 40°C (104°F) that does not come down with medicine. Any fever in a baby under 12 weeks needs urgent care. Seek help too if flu symptoms get better and then return or get worse.