Flu advice

We’re here for you with our clinicians’ expert flu advice. The flu season in the UK runs from October through to March each year, with lots of people getting their annual flu vaccine during these months and just before. Flu can be an unpleasant illness, so it’s important you’re clued up on flu symptoms, how to prevent catching the flu and the benefits of getting the flu vaccine. But whether you’re getting the vaccine or not, you can still do your bit by taking steps to reduce the risk of catching and spreading flu to those around you.

Symptoms, treatment & spread Flu vaccine advice

Symptoms, treatment and spread advice

Who is at high risk from the flu?

For some people the flu can lead to more serious health complications such as bronchitis and pneumonia. Read more.
Flu symptoms

The most common symptoms of flu include a sudden fever, headache, tiredness and aching muscles. Read more.
Difference between cold and flu

Flu and the common cold are different illnesses, although they may share some symptoms. Read more.

On this page

Flu treatments

Flu symptoms

How long does the flu last?

Telling the difference between a cold, the flu and a hangover

What's the difference between the cold and the flu?

Flu jab advice

Why you should get the flu jab

There are a variety of benefits to receiving the flu jab, not least that it can help you avoid catching the flu. Read more.
How long does the flu vaccine last?

The flu virus is constantly evolving, therefore the flu jab you receive one year will not be effective against the flu the following year. Read more.