Time Frame

• The flu develops suddenly and lasts for about a week, but some symtoms such as fatigue may linger longer.
  
  

Symptoms

• Symptoms of the flu include fever higher than 101 degrees Fahrenheit, chills, sweating, muscle aches, weakness, fatigue, congestion and poor appetite. Children may also experience vomiting and diarrhea.
  
  

Complications

• Pneumonia is a serious complication of flu and may include a severe cough with phlegm and sharp pains when breathing in deeply. Other serious complications may include bronchitis and encephalitis.
  
  

Self-Care

• Some things that can help ease symptoms of the flu include getting plenty of rest, drinking plenty of fluids and taking acetaminophen or ibuprofen to reduce fever and pain.
  
  

Prevention/Solution

• Flu shots are available to protect against the flu. Prescriptions medications such as Tamiflu can reduce the severity of symptoms on the duration of the illness.