What is influenza?
A person with influenza has an infection caused by the influenza virus, which attacks the nose, throat and lungs. Influenza is very contagious. Each year, about 40 million people in the US have influenza. Most people recover completely from influenza within 10 days, although some people remain weak and fatigued for weeks.

What are the symptoms of influenza?
Common symptoms of influenza include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, fatigue, and headache. Additional symptoms of influenza may include nasal congestion, chills, weakness, muscle aches, joint pains, nausea, and vomiting.

How does the doctor treat influenza?
The treatment for influenza includes rest, oral fluids, and acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications for pain and fever control. In some cases, treatment may include antiviral medications. Additional treatment for influenza may include bronchodilators for wheezing, and nasal decongestants.