Purpose
Infographic with guidance on what to do if you are sick with the flu.
508 text
Sick With Flu? Know What to Do!
[Illustration of a man standing in a subway car surrounded by flu germs; text]
Influenza (or flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by flu viruses. Most people with flu have mild illness and do not need medical care or antiviral drugs. If you get flu symptoms, in most cases, you should stay home and avoid contact with others except to get medical care.
Know the symptoms of Flu
[Illustration of man in bed with a thermometer in his mouth showing a fever; text]
Flu viruses can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. The flu is different from a cold. The flu usually comes on suddenly. People who have flu often feel some or all of these symptoms: Fever* or feeling feverish/chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, fatigue (tiredness). Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea. This is more common in children.
* It’s important to note that not everyone with flu will have a fever.
Take Antiviral Drugs if your doctor prescribes them!
[Illustration of prescription antivirals medicine bottle and antiviral medication pills; text]
Antiviral drugs can be used to treat flu illness. Antiviral drugs can make illness milder and shorten the time you are sick. They also can prevent serious flu complications.
CDC recommends that antiviral drugs be used early to treat people who are very sick with the flu and people who get flu symptoms who are at high risk of serious flu complications, either because of their age or because they have a high risk medical condition.
Stay Home When Sick
[Illustration of a man asleep in bed next to an alarm clock that reads 1:13 PM]
When you are sick, limit contact with others as much as possible. Remember to cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, and throw tissues in the trash after you use them. Stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities.
*Your fever should be gone for 24 hours without the use of a fever-reducing medicine before resuming normal activities.
[Illustration of antiviral pills and of a band-aid with the words #FightFlu]
www.cdc.gov/flu/treatment/takingcare.htm
CDC logo