Flu

Coming down with a flu can leave you feeling drained - with symptoms like a runny nose, headache, cough, body aches, and fatigue. While there's no cure, there are plenty of treatments that can help relieve your symptoms and make you more comfortable while your body recovers.

At 123Meds, you can access effective treatments through our UK-registered online pharmacy service.

Start Your Consultation

UK Prescribers &
pharmacists

100% Discretion on all<br>consultations & orders icon

100% Discretion on all
consultations & orders

Express next day<br>delivery before 3:30PM icon

Express next day
delivery before 3:30PM

Online Prescription<br>Available Now icon

Online Prescription
Available Now

Fle

Flu, or influenza, is a highly contagious viral infection that affects the nose, throat, and lungs. It comes on suddenly and is more severe than a common cold. Typical symptoms include a high temperature, body aches, fatigue, sore throat, cough, and sometimes vomiting or diarrhoea—particularly in children.

Most people recover within a week or two, but flu can lead to complications in vulnerable groups such as the elderly, young children, or those with underlying health conditions. The virus spreads easily through coughs, sneezes, and contaminated surfaces.

There’s no cure, but rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications can help ease symptoms. An annual flu vaccine is the best way to reduce your risk.

Flu (influenza) is caused by influenza viruses, which spread easily from person to person through coughs, sneezes, or contact with contaminated surfaces. There are several types of flu viruses, and they can change each year, which is why annual flu vaccinations are recommended. You're more likely to catch the flu in autumn and winter, especially in crowded places or if your immune system is weakened.

Flu symptoms typically appear suddenly and can make you feel very unwell. Common symptoms include a high temperature, chills, muscle aches, joint pain, headache, fatigue, a dry cough, sore throat, and a runny or blocked nose. Some people may also experience loss of appetite, nausea, or vomiting, particularly in children. While most symptoms improve within 7 to 10 days, fatigue and a lingering cough can last longer. If your symptoms are severe or you’re in a higher-risk group, it’s important to seek medical advice.

There is no cure for the flu, but most people recover with rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medications to ease symptoms. Paracetamol or ibuprofen can help reduce fever, ease aches, and relieve headaches. Decongestants and cough medicines may also offer relief from blocked noses and coughs.

In some cases, especially for people at higher risk of complications (such as the elderly, pregnant women, or those with chronic conditions), a doctor may prescribe an antiviral medication like Tamiflu (oseltamivir). Tamiflu works by reducing the virus’s ability to spread in the body and is most effective when taken within 48 hours of symptoms starting. While it doesn’t cure flu, it may shorten the duration and lessen the severity of symptoms.

Most people recover at home, but if symptoms worsen or you’re concerned, you should seek medical advice.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a cold and the flu?
Flu symptoms come on suddenly and tend to be more severe than a cold. You’re more likely to experience a high fever, body aches, chills, and fatigue with flu, whereas a cold usually causes a runny nose, sore throat, and mild cough.
How long does the flu last?
Most people recover from the flu in 7 to 10 days, though tiredness and a cough may last longer. If symptoms worsen or last beyond two weeks, speak to your doctor.
Can I treat flu at home?
Yes. Rest, fluids, and over-the-counter pain relief like paracetamol or ibuprofen can help manage symptoms. Staying hydrated and getting plenty of rest is essential.
What is Tamiflu, and who is it for?
Tamiflu (oseltamivir) is an antiviral medicine used to shorten flu duration and reduce symptom severity. It’s most effective when taken within 48 hours of symptom onset.
Is the flu contagious?
Yes. Flu spreads through coughs, sneezes, and contact with contaminated surfaces. You’re most contagious in the first 3 to 5 days after symptoms begin.
How can I prevent getting the flu?
The best protection is the annual flu vaccine, especially for those in high-risk groups. Regular hand washing, using tissues when coughing or sneezing, and avoiding close contact with unwell people also help.
Should I see a doctor for flu?
If you’re generally healthy, flu can usually be managed at home. However, seek medical advice if you’re in a vulnerable group, symptoms become severe, or don’t improve after a week.