These Are The Telltale Signs You Have The Flu, According To Doctors

“If you think you might have the flu, you should get tested, as there are medications that can help shorten the illness,” Long said. “Flu antivirals are different than those used for COVID and will not work against the common cold, so a positive test can be helpful in guiding [treatment].”

You can get tested for the flu at a healthcare facility or can pick up at-home flu tests from pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens.

Those who come down with the flu this season should also drink plenty of fluids, take medications for bothersome symptoms (like Tylenol for a fever) and get rest.

“If you get sick and are part of a high-risk population, which includes people who are immunocompromised, 65 or older, or have any chronic medical conditions, you should talk to your doctor,” Aderson said. “They can prescribe you flu medication and also make sure you don’t have any severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, dehydration or chest pain.”

While many people recover just fine from the flu, it can be deadly. Upward of 36,000 people die each year in the U.S. from the flu, and many more require hospitalization. If you’re high-risk or notice any of the severe symptoms mentioned above, it’s important that you alert your physician so you can get the treatment you need.

This article originally appeared on HuffPost.