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The Flu: Symptoms, Prevention and Treatment

  • 4 minute read.
  • Last Updated: 2/2/2026

Seasonal influenza (the flu) is a contagious respiratory illness that can range from mild to severe. While flu season typically begins in October, cases often continue rising as late as March.

At Covenant Health, we want families to feel informed, prepared, and supported. Whether you’re caring for someone at home or seeking medical attention at one of our trusted facilities, Covenant Health is your partner in recovery. 

A woman sitting on a couch, wrapped in a blanket, coughs into her elbow while holding a thermometer, appearing unwell.

What is the Flu?  

The flu is caused by viruses that infect the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs. It spreads easily through droplets when people cough, sneeze, or talk, and it can also spread by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your face.  

Common Flu Symptoms  

The flu is commonly associated with the following symptoms:  

  • Fever or chills  
  • Cough  
  • Sore throat  
  • Runny or stuffy nose  
  • Muscle or body aches  
  • Headaches  
  • Fatigue  
  • Sometimes vomiting or diarrhea (more common in children)  

While many people recover within a week or two, the flu can lead to complications such as pneumonia, sinus infections, worsening chronic conditions, and hospitalization.   

Who is at Risk?  

Anyone can get the flu, but some people are more at risk for complications. Those at increased risk include:  

  • Adults 65 and older  
  • Young children, especially under five years old  
  • Pregnant women  
  • People with chronic conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, or COPD  
  • People with weakened immune systems 

If someone in a high-risk group develops flu-like symptoms, early medical guidance is important.  

How the Flu Spreads 

The flu is contagious even before symptoms appear. People can spread the virus one day before symptoms begin and up to seven days after becoming sick. Children and people with weakened immune symptoms may be contagious even longer. 

This is why isolation and good hygiene practices are essential. 

Preventing the Flu 

Prevention is one of the most powerful tools we have. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the annual flu vaccination. This is the best way to reduce your risk of illness, hospitalization, and severe complications.  

Other ways to prevent the flu include:  

  • Washing hands frequently 
  • Avoiding touching your face 
  • Covering coughs and sneezes 
  • Staying home when sick 
  • Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces 

“Influenza virus is highly contagious and people with the flu are most contagious during the first three day of their illness,” explains Amy Rymer-Sheets, Methodist Medical Center’s Infection Preventionist.  “When we break the chain of transmission by removing germs from our hands and our environment, we protect ourselves and everyone around us.”  

A strong immune system is another important line of defense. These consistent habits can help you combat seasonal illness:

  • Prioritize consistent sleep
  • Balance nutrition
  • Stay hydrated
  • Exercise regularly
  • Manage stress

When Medication Helps 

Flu antiviral medications—such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu)—can shorten the duration of illness and reduce the risk of complications when started early, ideally within 48 hours of symptom onset. 

They are recommended for: 

  • People at higher risk of complications 
  • People with severe or progressive symptoms 
  • Hospitalized patients 

A healthcare provider can determine whether antivirals are appropriate. 

When to Seek Medical Care 

The CDC lists several emergency warning signs that require immediate medical attention: 

Warning Signs in Adults 

  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath 
  • Chest pain or pressure 
  • Severe or persistent dizziness 
  • Confusion 
  • Signs of dehydration (such as dizziness, dry mouth and lack of urination) 
  • Symptoms that improve but return with fever or worse cough 

Warning Signs in Children 

  • Fast or troubled breathing 
  • Bluish lips or face 
  • Severe muscle pain 
  • Dehydration 
  • Not waking up or interacting 
  • Fever above 104°F 
  • Any fever in infants under 12 weeks 

If you’re not sure what to do, contact a healthcare provider for guidance.  

Your Partner in Flu Season 

Most people recover from the flu at home with rest, fluids, and over-the-counter remedies. However, if symptoms become severe—or if you or a loved one are in a high-risk group—it’s important not to wait. 

If you or someone in your family is experiencing flu symptoms, schedule an appointment with a Covenant Health primary care physician or visit a Covenant Health urgent care center near you. If emergency warning signs are present, visit a hospital near you. You can even skip the wait with Call Ahead Emergency Care, now available at all Covenant Health hospitals. 

We are here to help you recover safely and return to wellness. 

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