Flu (Influenza): Symptoms, Signs, Causes, Types, Diagnosis, Treatment

Prescription medicines

Prescription medicines – 12Healthy.com

Most cases of flu do not require specific prescription medicine. And, if you are in a high-risk group or have another health problem, your doctor can prescribe you medicine or want to change your current medications.

Your doctor can prescribe influenza antiviral medications. Studies have shown that taking antiviral drugs within the first 48-72 hours of the onset of symptoms help to make your symptoms less severe and can shorten the length of your illness. These drugs may also make you less likely to have significant complications. Such medications are especially essential for people at high risk of influenza complications, such as infants, older adults, and people with preexisting health conditions.

Vaccination

Although it’s more preventive than care, having a flu shot every year can significantly reduce the chances of getting the flu. The annual flu vaccine is recommended for people over six months of age, but it is especially essential for children, people over 65 years of age and those with chronic health conditions because they are more likely to get flu complications.