Influenza (flu)
The flu is a respiratory viral infection that arrives suddenly: fever, body aches, fatigue, headache, and cough, often within hours. That abrupt onset is what distinguishes it from a common cold, which builds gradually. Most healthy people recover at home in about a week, but the flu can be serious for adults over 65, pregnant women, young children, and people with chronic conditions like asthma, diabetes, or heart disease.
Timing matters
Prescription antiviral medications can shorten the illness and reduce its severity, but they work best when started within 48 hours of the first symptoms. If you are in a higher-risk group — or care for someone who is — seeking evaluation early rather than waiting it out makes a real difference.
Recovering at home
For most people, treatment means rest, plenty of fluids, and fever management. Warning signs that call for immediate medical attention include difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion, signs of dehydration, or symptoms that improve and then suddenly return worse — which can signal a secondary infection.
Prevention
An annual flu vaccine remains the most effective protection, recommended for almost everyone over six months of age. Because circulating strains change, last year's vaccine does not protect against this year's flu.
Book a consultation
Have flu symptoms, or questions about treatment or prevention? Book a consultation — the pharmacy team will review your situation and guide you on the next steps, in English, Spanish, or Portuguese.
Frequently asked questions
The flu hits fast and hard: fever, body aches, and exhaustion within hours. A cold builds over days and stays mostly in the nose and throat. If you went from fine to unable to get out of bed in one day, it is more likely the flu.
Yes — when started within about 48 hours of symptom onset, antivirals can shorten the illness and reduce complications. They require a prescription, and a licensed provider determines whether they are appropriate for your case.
From about one day before symptoms appear until roughly five to seven days after — longer in children and people with weakened immune systems. The most contagious window is the first three to four days of illness.
The general rule is at least 24 hours after the fever is gone without using fever-reducing medication. Returning earlier prolongs your recovery and spreads the virus to others.
The influenza virus changes constantly, and each year's vaccine is updated to match the strains expected to circulate. Immunity also fades over time, so an annual dose keeps protection current.
General frequently asked questions
Yes. Every prescription medication on this site requires a valid prescription from a licensed healthcare provider. Send us your prescription (e-Rx, fax, or a call to your prescriber), or transfer it from your current pharmacy.
Yes. Simply provide the name and phone number of your current pharmacy, and the transfer is handled for you — usually within 2 business days.
Prescriptions issued abroad cannot be dispensed directly. However, if you are already on treatment, a pharmacist can review your case and guide you through obtaining a valid U.S. prescription so your therapy continues without interruption.
No. Only your doctor or prescriber can change your treatment. Pharmacists are available to answer questions about your medication and coordinate with your prescriber when needed.
At either of our pharmacies — Boca Raton or Pompano Beach. You pay at the pharmacy when you pick up.
Yes. Chronic oral medications are eligible for a discounted 90-day supply, available on each product page.
This page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or medication. Prescription medications are dispensed only with a valid prescription issued by a licensed healthcare provider.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Torre, PharmD, RPh — Pharmacist-in-Charge, Florida License PS40009