This year's flu symptoms are the same as always: sudden fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle aches, headache, chills, and fatigue.
The virus strains circulating change each season, but the illness they cause looks the same from year to year. Flu tends to hit fast, often within hours, while a cold builds gradually over a day or two. Some people, especially children, also get vomiting or diarrhea, though this is more common in kids than adults. Most healthy adults recover in about a week with rest, fluids, and over-the-counter fever reducers. Symptoms that keep getting worse after day 3 to 5, instead of improving, are worth a closer look.
When to get tested
Common questions
what are the flu symptoms this year
Flu symptoms are consistent every year regardless of which strains are circulating: sudden onset of fever or feeling feverish, chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headache, and fatigue. The key difference from a cold is speed. Flu symptoms typically appear suddenly, while colds develop gradually. Not everyone with flu gets a fever. Some people, particularly children, experience vomiting or diarrhea. Most cases resolve within a week with rest and fluids. Seek care promptly for trouble breathing, chest pain, confusion, or symptoms that improve then return worse.