Flu symptoms
Flu can cause a sudden combination of fever, aches, fatigue and respiratory symptoms. Similar symptoms can occur with other infections.
Common symptoms
- Fever or chills, although not everyone has a fever
- Body aches and fatigue
- Cough or sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Headache
- Sometimes vomiting or diarrhea, especially in children
A useful care conversation
Share when symptoms started and whether you are pregnant or have conditions that increase the risk of complications. Antiviral treatment works best early, and higher-risk patients should contact a clinician promptly. The plan may include comfort measures, monitoring or treatment selected for your circumstances.
When to seek more care
- Seek emergency help for severe breathing difficulty, persistent chest pain, confusion or inability to stay awake.
- Get prompt assessment for dehydration or symptoms that improve and then become worse.
General educational information, not a diagnosis or a complete symptom checker. The right care depends on your circumstances.
For an emergency, call 911. Do not wait for a Tap reply or send a photo first.
About this information
Adapted from Tap’s published care-topic library. Original publication: 2025-01-01. Prepared for this guide: 2026-09-07. Preparation is not a clinical-review certification.
The clinician decides whether advice, testing, an examination or a prescription is appropriate. A listed topic does not guarantee remote treatment or a refill. Tap does not prescribe controlled substances.