All about Flu

It’s full name is ‘influenza’. Lots of times people say they have ‘flu’ when all they have is a cold and a bit of a temperature. Real ‘flu’ is caused by one of the many ‘influenza’ viruses. These viruses give you a high fever, aching muscles, a headache, make you feel shivery and rotten and all you want to do is to lie down. Sometimes you may get a cough. These problems usually last a 3-4 days. There is no treatment as antibiotics don’t work against viruses.

What to do.
Lie down; take paracetamol as directed on the packet; get mum or dad to look after you; drink lots of clear fluids; stay away from anyone you like or you will spread it to them; hang on in there till you feel better!

‘Flu’ jabs are only recommended for older people or if you have some other serious illness for which you are receiving treatment.