What Is the Flu?   |     Protect Yourself    |     If You Get the Flu    |     Bird Flu   

If You Get the Flu

If you develop flu-like symptoms, but you do not have an underlying medical condition: 

• Get plenty of rest.        
  
  
• Drink a lot of liquids.
  
  
• Avoid using alcohol and tobacco.           
  
  
• Consider taking over-the-counter medications to relieve the symptoms of flu 
  (but  never give aspirin to children or teenagers who have flu-like symptoms).     
  
  
• Stay home and avoid contact with other people to protect them from catching your illness.      
  
  
• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze to protect others from your germs.
  

Most healthy people recover from the flu without complications.

• Look Out for Emergency Warning Signs.
  
• Are You at High Risk for Flu Complications?

Adapted from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.

Flu Home |  Who We Are  |  Media Campaign  |  Useful Links  |  Info for Physicians   

© 2008 Massachusetts Medical Society