A flu epidemic is upon us and several people have already died from flu complications. While flu vaccinations are a great way to protect yourself from the illness, they do not protect against all strains and even if you do get an annual flu shot, there is still a chance you could get the flu.

Many people recover from the flu within a few days but for children, the elderly, and people with weak immune systems, the flu can be dangerous and sometimes even deadly. By getting treatment for the flu quickly, you can avoid a lengthy sickness and any complications the flu may cause.

It can be hard to tell if you have a common cold or the flu. The symptoms you are experiencing can help you determine which one you have and the severity of can help you decide if you need to see a doctor.

The most common flu symptoms include a fever, chills, achiness and fatigue. Many people with the flu also experience abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting, headache, coughing and runny nose. If you have any or all of these symptoms, you may have the flu.

Since fly season can be a busy time for doctor offices and urgent care centers, you may not be able to see a physician as soon as you would like. While you wait, you can relieve some of your symptoms by taking fever reducing medications and other over the counter medications such as cough suppressants and decongestants.

If your flu symptoms get too severe, go to the emergency room. Many areas are reporting a rise in hospitalizations as a result of a severe strain of swine fly or the H1N1 flu strain. This is the same strain that caused the 2009 pandemic. H1N1 is more several than the general flu, but it is treated with the same medications.

Call your doctor as soon as you see any signs of the flu. The faster your get treatment, the faster you will start to feel better. Always remember to wash your hands and quarantine yourself while you are sick to avoid spreading the flu to others.

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