But, not all wintertime infections are caused by influenza. Symptoms of the influenza infection include the sudden onset of fever, chills, fatigue, severe muscle aches, dry cough and stuffy nose. Sore throat, nausea and headache may also be present. Signs of the infection are noticed one to four days after exposure to the virus.
Rest is still the major treatment for the flu.
The flu vaccine is recommended, not only to avoid influenza, but also to prevent potential complications of the flu. Some of these complications can be life-threatening, such as pneumonia. Complications may include ear, sinus and lung infections. Elderly and chronically ill people are at highest risk. The vaccine is recommended annually for people over 65 years of age, children taking chronic aspirin therapy, health care workers and people with chronic illness, especially heart and lung disease.