What are signs of the flu?
The most important signs are:
- Fever (temperature 100.4 F/38 C or higher), with or without chills
- Headache
- Extreme tiredness
- Muscle aches
- Dry cough
Less common signs are:
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Children might have nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea
What makes flu different from a cold?
- Fever, tiredness, and muscle aches are rare with a cold.
- Flu symptoms usually are sudden
- Signs of a cold are gradual
- Signs of a cold are sneezing, sore throat, and stuffy nose
- Cough is part of the flu, but not always with a cold
- What can I do to prevent flu?
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water
- Cover coughs and sneezes with an elbow
- Clean surfaces frequently
- Get a flu shot from your provider or area pharmacy
What should I do if I’m sick or think that my child has the flu?
- Call your provider if you have a fever
- Stay home from work or school, especially with a fever.
If you have any questions about the flu, please call your provider or ask your school nurse.