Healthy people with seasonal flu do not need to contact their GP as they will get better on their own by taking over-the-counter flu remedies, resting, and drinking plenty of fluids.
When you should see your GP
See your GP if any of the following applies to you:
- Your symptoms have got much worse, or you have developed other symptoms that are not typical of seasonal flu, such as a rash.
- Your symptoms have lasted for longer than a week.
- You have a medical condition that is making your flu worse (see Complications).
Flu is usually diagnosed based on your symptoms, but your GP will also ask for your medical history.
If another disease is suspected (for example malaria if you have recently been travelling), then other tests or a referral may be necessary.
Glossary
- Culture
- To culture is to provide suitable conditions in a laboratory for a sample of living cells to grow and multiply.
Last updated: 04 October 2011
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