You will probably be sick for several days with fever and respiratory symptoms. Take Medications if Prescribed:
Take all of the antiviral medication as directed if prescribed.
Continue to cover your cough and wash your hands often, even when taking antiviral medications, to prevent spreading influenza to others.
Call the office if you (or your child) experience any side effects; i.e. nausea, vomiting, rash, or unusual behavior.
Take medications for symptom relief as needed for fever and pain such as acetaminophen (Tylenol®) and ibuprofen (Advil®, Motrin®, Nuprin®), and cough medicine. These medicines do not need to be taken regularly if your symptoms improve.
Do not give aspirin (acetylsalicylic acid) or products that contain aspirin (e.g. bismuth subsalicylate – Pepto Bismol) to children or teenagers 18 years old or younger.
Children younger than 4 years of age should not be given over-the-counter cold medications without first speaking with a health care provider.
Seek Emergency Care If your child experiences any of the following:
Fast breathing or trouble breathing
Bluish or gray skin color
Not drinking enough fluids
Severe or persistent vomiting
Not waking up or not interacting
Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held
Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough
In adults, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:
Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
Sudden dizziness
Confusion
Severe or persistent vomiting
Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)