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Booking an appointment has never been easier! Get professional care from the comfort of your home with just a few clicks. Don’t let illness slow you down—reserve your spot today and start your journey to feeling better.

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Effective Flu Relief, Expert Care

Our tailored treatment plans are designed to tackle your symptoms head-on. Whether you need quick flu relief or lasting energy boosts, our professionals guide you with strategies that work—all from the convenience of your home.

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Easy Check-Ins

Follow-up appointments are simple and stress-free. We’re here to ensure you’re healing well, adjusting your treatment as needed. Your health journey is vital to us, and we’re committed to supporting you every step of the way.

What is the Flu?

The flu, or influenza, is a common but contagious illness caused by influenza viruses. It mainly affects the respiratory system, including the nose, throat, and lungs. The flu differs from the "stomach flu," which causes vomiting and diarrhoea. New influenza virus strains emerge every year, which is why many people get sick, especially during the colder winter months.

 

The flu symptoms are frequently mistaken for those of a cold, but they are considerably more severe. A cold may only result in minor sniffles, whereas the flu can make you feel so unwell that getting out of bed becomes challenging. The flu presents itself rapidly and typically persists for about a week. It is possible to contract the flu at any time of the year, but it is more prevalent during winter. The virus is transmitted through coughing and sneezing from person to person.

Flu Symptoms

Flu symptoms can range from mild to severe and often come on quickly. Unlike the common cold, which usually develops slowly, the flu can suddenly make you feel unwell. Here’s what to watch out for if you think you might have the flu:

 

  • Fever or chills: Many people with the flu experience a high fever, which may come with shivering or chills.
  • Cough: A dry, persistent cough is common and can be bothersome.
  • Sore throat: Your throat may feel scratchy or painful.
  • Stuffy or runny nose: Nasal congestion and a runny nose are frequent symptoms.
  • Muscle or body aches: Flu can cause significant muscle pain, often making your whole body sore.
  • Headache: You might experience a throbbing headache that won’t go away easily.
  • Fatigue: Feeling tired or weak is a typical sign, even if you’ve had plenty of rest.
  • Sweats and chills: You may switch between feeling extremely hot and breaking out in a sweat to feeling very cold.
  • Stomach issues: Vomiting, diarrhoea, and stomach pain are more common in children but can occur in adults too.
  • Sometimes, the flu can lead to complications like sinus or ear infections, pneumonia, or dehydration. People with health conditions like diabetes or weakened immune systems may struggle to fight off the flu. Seeing a doctor is essential if you or someone in your family shows severe symptoms.

Causes of Flu

When someone coughs or sneezes, they release tiny droplets that contain a virus, which is responsible for causing the flu.

It's highly contagious because the germs can survive up to 24 hours on your hands and other surfaces.

Flu Causes

The flu, or influenza, is caused by viruses that spread quickly from person to person. The two main types that make people sick are Influenza A and Influenza B, which cause outbreaks yearly, especially in the winter. Influenza C also exists but usually causes only mild symptoms and is not seasonal.

 

Flu viruses travel through the air in tiny droplets when someone with the flu coughs, sneezes, or talks. You can catch the flu by breathing in these droplets or touching something with the virus, like a door handle, and then touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. The flu spreads fast, and you can give it to others even before you feel sick and up to a week after your symptoms start.

 

What makes the flu tricky is that the virus is always changing. This means that even if you have the flu, you can get it again if a new strain occurs. Scientists create a new flu vaccine yearly to protect people from the most common strains. Getting vaccinated and practising good hygiene, like washing your hands, can help stop the flu from spreading.

Flu Treatment

Treating the flu effectively involves a combination of rest, hydration, and medication. Here are some critical steps you can take to manage flu symptoms and recover faster:

 

  • Rest and stay warm: Take time off from school or work and get plenty of sleep. Staying in bed helps your body heal and prevents the spread of the virus to others.
  • Stay hydrated: Drink lots of fluids like water, electrolyte drinks, or decaf tea. Avoid caffeinated drinks, such as coffee and soda, as they can worsen dehydration.
  • Over-the-counter medicines: Use paracetamol (acetaminophen) or ibuprofen to reduce fever and relieve body aches. Avoid giving aspirin to children or teenagers because it can cause serious complications.
  • Antiviral medications: If prescribed by a doctor, antivirals like Tamiflu or Relenza can help shorten the duration of the flu. These work best if taken within 48 hours of the first symptoms. They are significant for people at higher risk of severe flu complications.
  • Home care tips: Wash your hands often, use tissues when sneezing or coughing, and keep a safe distance from others to prevent spreading the virus.
  • When to see a doctor: If your symptoms get worse or if you have a high risk of complications (such as if you have asthma, diabetes, or a weakened immune system), contact your healthcare provider.

 

Following these steps can help you recover more quickly and reduce the risk of complications. Always talk to your doctor if you have any concerns or if your symptoms are severe.

Flu Prevention

Preventing the flu is key to staying healthy, especially during flu season. Here are some simple but effective ways to lower your risk of getting or spreading the virus:

  • Get vaccinated: The annual flu shot is the best protection against the flu. Because flu viruses change yearly, getting vaccinated regularly prepares your immune system.
  • Wash your hands often: Use soap and water for at least 15 to 20 seconds, especially after coughing, sneezing, or touching shared surfaces. If soap isn’t available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitiser.
  • Avoid touching your face: Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth, as these are common entry points for viruses.
  • Cover your mouth and nose: Use tissue or your elbow when coughing or sneezing to prevent germs from spreading. Throw away tissues immediately and wash your hands afterward.
  • Keep your distance: Stay away from people who are sick. If you feel unwell, stay home to avoid passing the virus to others.
  • Practice good hygiene: Disinfect surfaces regularly, like doorknobs and countertops, to kill any germs that may be present.
  • Don’t share utensils: Avoid sharing cups, plates, or eating utensils to prevent the spread of germs.
  • Stay healthy: Support your immune system by eating a balanced diet, getting enough sleep, and staying hydrated.

Following these steps can help protect yourself and others from the flu and keep your community healthy.

With Mobi Doctor, you can get expert advice and flu treatment from home. Our caring professionals are ready to guide you through practical steps to feel better and prevent the virus from spreading.

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