Know the Symptoms of Flu

Most people who get flu recover in less than two weeks, but some people develop life-threatening complications. Pregnant women, people 65 and older, children younger than 5, and people with certain health conditions are more likely to get serious flu illness. Those people should get treated quickly if they get flu. Learn how to recognize flu symptoms and emergency warning signs early.

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Flu Symptoms & Complications

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Flu Symptoms

Influenza (flu) can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. Flu is different from a cold. 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, though this is more common in children than adults.

*It’s important to note that not everyone with flu will have a fever.