California is currently experiencing one of its most severe flu seasons in recent years, with a significant increase in hospitalizations across the state. As of late January 2025, flu-related deaths have surpassed previous seasons, prompting health officials to urge residents to take precautions.
Dr. Scott Flinn, regional medical director for Provider Partnerships at Blue Shield of California, provides guidance on how to spot the flu, how to treat it and when to get vaccinated.
What are the symptoms of the flu?
Influenza, commonly known as the flu, typically causes the following symptoms:
- Fever
- Chills
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle or body aches
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Some individuals, particularly children, may experience vomiting and diarrhea.
Flu symptoms typically last between five and seven days, though fatigue and cough can persist for two weeks or longer in some cases.
“These symptoms can come on suddenly and hit hard,” said Dr. Flinn. “If you start feeling unwell, it’s important to rest and monitor your condition closely, especially if you are in a higher-risk group, including elderly individuals, pregnant women, young children or those with chronic health conditions.”
How to treat flu symptoms
If you suspect you have the flu, Dr. Flinn advises the following:
- Get plenty of rest and stay hydrated: Proper rest supports your immune system’s ability to fight the flu virus, while drinking fluids helps regulate body temperature, loosen mucus and prevent dehydration.
- Use over-the-counter medications: Fever reducers and pain relievers can help alleviate discomfort; always follow dosage recommendations.
- Consult a healthcare provider: If you experience persistent high fever, difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion or severe dehydration (such as dizziness and reduced urination), contact a healthcare provider immediately. A healthcare provider can assess your symptoms and determine if antiviral medications, such as Tamiflu, are appropriate. These medications are most effective when taken within 48 hours of symptom onset and can help shorten the duration and severity of the illness. Your healthcare provider can also help determine if more severe symptoms would need medical intervention. If you’re experiencing severe flu symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, chest pain or persistent high fever, seek medical attention immediately.
- Prevent spreading the flu: Stay home until at least 24 hours after your fever subsides without the use of fever-reducing medication, and avoid close contact with others, especially those at higher risk for complications. Consider wearing a mask if you need to be around others while you’re still symptomatic. Flu is typically contagious from one day before symptoms appear to up to seven days after becoming sick.
Is it too late to get vaccinated?
"It's never too late to get a flu shot," said Dr. Flinn. "Even though flu season is well underway, the vaccine can still protect you from severe illness and reduce the spread to others."
The flu season can last well into spring, meaning vaccination remains a crucial defense. While the vaccine does not necessarily prevent infection, it does reduce the risk of hospitalization and death.
In addition to vaccination, Dr. Flinn recommends practicing good hygiene — frequent handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, and avoiding close contact with sick individuals — to help prevent the spread of the flu.
Resources
- Frequently asked questions about the flu vaccine
- Blue Shield members can find flu vaccine information here.