Influenza

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a highly contagious infection of the nose, throat and lungs caused by the Influenza A or B (or rarely C) viruses. Influenza is more serious than the common cold.

Symptoms include:

• rapid onset of fever
• headache
• muscle aches
• fatigue
• sneezing
• running nose
• sore throat
• cough.

Most people recover within a week, although the cough and fatigue may last longer. Influenza can be a serious illness, potentially fatal, particularly in people aged over 65 years of age or with a chronic illness.

Clinical and public health management of influenza

The guideline for Emergency Departments and General Practice flowchart (PDF 68KB) guides you through the clinical and public health management for people with influenza. Important infection control measures are also provided within this flowchart.

Influenza and pregnancy

Is your patient pregnant or has recently given birth? The Managing pregnant women with suspected influenza fact sheet provides health professionals with information on influenza prevention, testing, treatment and prophylaxis in pregnant women.  Important considerations in influenza management during each trimester, delivery and in the post-partum period are also discussed.

Influenza resources and useful links

Need fact sheets, posters and clinical tools? Take advantage of our list of influenza resources and links to other government websites.