Flu - Diagnosis 

Diagnosing flu 

If you are otherwise fit and healthy, you don't need to see your GP when you have flu.

Read more about treating flu.

When you should see your GP

You should see your GP if you have flu and any of the following applies to you:

  • your symptoms have got much worse and include shortness of breath, chest pain or coughing up blood, or you have developed other symptoms that are not typical of flu, such as a rash
  • your symptoms have lasted for longer than a week
  • you have a medical condition that is making your flu worse (see Complications)

Your GP will diagnose flu based on your symptoms and your medical history. If they suspect that your symptoms are caused by a different condition - for example, malaria, if you have recently been travelling, you may need to have further tests or a referral to a hospital specialist.

Last reviewed: 11/08/2011

Next review due: 11/08/2013

Don't pass it on

Catch it
Germs spread easily. Always carry tissues and use them to catch your cough or sneeze.

Bin it
Germs can live for several hours on tissues. Dispose of your tissue as soon as possible.

Kill it
Hands can transfer germs to every surface you touch. Wash your hands immediately after disposing of  tissues.

Flu and the flu vaccine

Your guide to flu symptoms and the flu vaccine, including who should get the jab this winter.

Cold or flu?

Find out about symptoms of colds and flu and how to stop the viruses spreading

Swine flu

The H1N1 (swine flu) virus is still around. Find out who should get vaccinated