Flu

• Get as much rest as possible.
• Sleep with your head slightly elevated. For example, place a pillow under the mattress or raise the head of the bed slightly.
• Take warm showers or baths.
• For children, allow them to play in the bath or accompany them in the shower. The steam may help them breathe easier.
• Keep the air in your home clean and slightly humid (between 30% and 50% humidity).
• Ask your pharmacistfor advice on the best medications to relieve your symptoms.
• To reduce pain, take acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil). When in doubt, ask a pharmacist for advice. 

Important: Ibuprofen is contraindicated for children under 6 months of age.

To stay hydrated and nourish your body

• Drink plenty of water.
• Drink warm liquids such as broth.
• Eat several small meals throughout the day, even if your appetite is reduced.
• For babies and young children, offer breast milk, formula, or other fluids frequently.

To relieve other symptoms

If needed, see the advice sheets for:

• Cough
• Stuffy nose (nasal congestion)
• Fatigue
• Sore throat
• Outer Ear Infection
• Infection Behind the Eardrum

To help prevent spreading the infection

• Wash your hands frequently.
• Do not share items that have come into contact with the sick person’s mouth.
• Stay home during the most contagious period.
• Avoid close contact with other people.
• Avoid contact with babies, young children, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces and objects regularly.