Your flu test is positive. Most people recover within 1–2 weeks with rest and supportive care.
What You Can Do at Home
- Rest and drink plenty of fluids (water, tea, broth, electrolyte drinks).
- For fever, headache, and body aches, take Tylenol® (acetaminophen), Advil®/Motrin® (ibuprofen), or Aleve® (naproxen) as directed.
- For congestion, consider Sudafed® (pseudoephedrine) if appropriate for you.
- For cough or sore throat, try throat lozenges, warm fluids, humidified air, or Mucinex® (guaifenesin).
- Call 530-752-2349 to talk to an advice nurse if you have questions about home care.
Prevent Spreading the Flu
Stay home while sick and avoid contact with others. Communicate with your professor to inform them that you are sick and cannot join class to make other alternatives. You may return to normal activities when:
- Symptoms have been improving for at least 24 hours, and
- You have been fever-free for 24 hours without fever-reducing medication.
To help prevent the spread:
- Stay home while sick and avoid close contact with others.
- Wear a mask around others until fever-free and symptoms are improving.
- Wash hands frequently and cover coughs and sneezes.
- Do not share drinks, utensils, or personal items.
Antiviral Medication
Tamiflu® (oseltamivir) may be prescribed and works best when started within 48 hours of symptom onset.
Seek Medical Care Immediately If You Have
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Severe dehydration (dizziness, inability to keep fluids down, very little urine)