Influenza (or the flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can lead to symptoms that range from mild to severe. In some cases, the flu may cause breathing difficulties and complications that can become life-threatening - especially for children under 5, adults 65 and older, pregnant individuals and people with chronic conditions or weakened immune systems.
Practicing good hygiene can help reduce the risk of spreading the flu. Wash your hands often, cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze and avoid touching your face.
If you're feeling sick, knowing which illness you have can help you get the right care. Banner Health can help you recognize common flu symptoms, understand when to seek medical care and learn how to tell the difference between the flu and other conditions like COVID-19, the common cold or the stomach flu.
Flu symptoms tend to come on suddenly and worsen quickly. You might feel fine in the morning and very sick by the afternoon.
Common flu symptoms include:
Flu symptoms usually appear one to four days after exposure and may last several days to up to two weeks. Most people start to feel better within a week, but fatigue and a lingering cough can sometimes last longer.
Most people recover from the flu without needing medical care. However, some people are more likely to develop complications, including:
If you’re in a higher-risk group, it’s important to contact your provider if flu symptoms appear.
Many illnesses share similar symptoms with the flu. Here’s how the flu compares to other common conditions:
Cold and flu symptoms often overlap, but the flu hits harder and more suddenly. Fever, body aches and fatigue are usually more severe with the flu. Colds are more likely to cause mild congestion and sore throat.
COVID-19 and the flu are both respiratory illnesses but caused by different viruses. COVID-19 may include loss of taste or smell, digestive issues and shortness of breath. COVID-19 also carries a higher risk of severe illness and complications.
A rapid or PCR test is the best way to tell the difference.
Allergies can cause sneezing, congestion and coughing, but they usually include itchy or watery eyes and do not cause fever or body aches.
Pneumonia can develop from the flu or appear on its own. While flu symptoms often involve muscle aches and fatigue, pneumonia tends to focus on the lungs and breathing problems. Pneumonia symptoms usually develop more slowly.
Despite the name, the stomach flu is not related to influenza. It affects the digestive system and causes nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and cramps. It rarely involves fever or respiratory symptoms like cough or sore throat.
Bird flu primarily affects birds but can occasionally infect people who have close contact with infected birds. It is not the same as seasonal flu and spreads differently. Cases in humans are rare and often more severe.
Most flu cases can be treated at home with rest, fluids and over-the-counter medications. However, you should contact your provider or visit urgent care if you or a loved one has:
If you're in a high-risk group, don’t wait - seek care early if flu symptoms begin.
Learn more about when to seek medical treatment.
Even if you’ve already had the flu this season, there are still good reasons to get vaccinated. Multiple flu strains circulate each year, and the flu shot helps protect against the most common types.
Getting vaccinated can help prevent future illness - or make symptoms milder if you do get sick again.
Learn more about flu vaccines and common myths.
You can get your flu shot during a visit to any Banner Urgent Care location. Walk in or save your spot online - no appointment required.
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