Most healthy people do not need to see a doctor for the flu. The illness usually goes away in about 7 to 10 days. Although you may feel quite sick, home treatment is usually all that is needed.

You should see a doctor if:

• An infant under age 3 months has a fever of 100.4º F or higher.
• A child age 3 months to 3 years has a fever of 104º F or higher that does not come down after four to six hours of home treatment.
• A person age 4 or older has a fever of 104º F or higher that does not come down after two hours of home treatment.
• Your fever does not begin to go down after three to five days.
• You have a fever that goes away and then returns. (You could have a bacterial infection.)
• You or your child also has shortness of breath or other breathing problems.
• You or your child has a fever and a severe headache or stiff neck, or seems confused or hard to wake.
• A child who is ill and is not eating, taking fluids, or stops urinating, which can signify dehydration.

Warning Signs Requiring Urgent Medical Attention

In children:

• Fast breathing or trouble breathing
• Bluish skin color
• Not drinking enough fluids
• Not waking up or not interacting
• Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held
• Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough

In adults:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
• Sudden dizziness
• Confusion
• Severe or persistent vomiting

Where can I get more information?

For more information contact your physician or the Southern Nevada Health District, Office of Epidemiology at (702) 759-1300 or the Immunization Clinic at (702) 759-0850.