Pravdaogrippethe cold-and-flu season without panic: a guide to flu and colds

An independent guide to flu and colds. It does not replace a doctor, does not diagnose, and does not prescribe or evaluate medicines; it has no connection with the former site on this domain. In an emergency, call 112 in Russia (or your local emergency number).

Ask a doctor

Questions for a specialist

You cannot ask a question through this site: the guide does not give consultations or see patients. But you can prepare for your conversation with a doctor. We have collected questions that help you remember everything at your appointment or when a doctor visits you at home.

One question written down in advance is worth more than dozens of articles read: it will be answered by someone who can see you in person.

— Editor's note

How this section works: there is no question form here. Instead, we offer a list of things worth asking your GP, your child's doctor or the doctor treating you. Under each question we explain what information to have ready; the answer itself will come from your doctor, who will take your health into account.

About the flu jab

Do I need a flu jab this season?

Tell your doctor your age and about any chronic conditions, pregnancy or work with the public. They will explain which of these matter for the decision in your particular case.

When is the best time to have it?

Ask what timing suits you, given when the season starts and your own plans. In temperate climates epidemics happen mainly in winter, so autumn is a good time to ask.

Why is the jab recommended every year?

Ask your doctor to explain how the viruses and vaccines change. According to WHO, protection wanes over time and the vaccine composition is regularly updated.

What should I do if I feel unwell after the jab?

Ask which reactions are common and which mean you should contact a doctor straight away. Write the answer down so you do not have to remember it at a worrying moment.

If you are ill

Should I bring my temperature down, and if so, how?

Say how high your temperature is and how long it has lasted, and tell the doctor about any health conditions. Only a doctor can decide what to do about a fever; this guide does not give advice on it.

How long should I stay at home?

Ask when you can go back to work or school and whether you need a sick note. Describe how your illness is going and what your work involves.

How can I protect the rest of my household?

Tell the doctor who lives with you and whether there are children, older people or pregnant women among them. The doctor will tell you what to look out for in your family.

Which signs should worry me?

Ask the doctor to list the signs that mean you should call 112 or 103 in Russia (or your local emergency number) straight away, and the signs for which it is enough to contact your doctor's practice.

Children, older people and chronic conditions

What do I need to know about flu in my child?

Children under five are in a higher-risk group. Ask your child's doctor what to do at the first signs of illness and when to call without delay.

How can I help my elderly parents prepare for the season?

People over 65 tend to have flu more severely. Discuss the flu jab with their doctor, along with a plan in case of illness and who will check on them if they fall ill.

How does flu affect my chronic condition?

Tell the doctor your diagnosis and what the doctor treating you has prescribed. Ask what to change in your usual routine while you are ill, and do not change anything on your own.

I am expecting a baby: what should I bear in mind?

Pregnant women are in a higher-risk group. Tell your doctor how far along you are and how you feel, and ask what to do if you fall ill.

  • Prevention

    How to get your home and family ready for flu season: talking about the flu jab, hygiene and a plan in case of illness.

  • Home care

    Caring for someone who is ill without medicines: rest, fluids, fresh air, their own cup and towel, and close attention.

  • Topics

    Flu, other respiratory viruses, lingering coughs, the flu season and risk groups, topic by topic, plus our article catalogue.

  • Glossary

    Flu and cold vocabulary in plain English, from incubation period and strain to placebo and sick note.

Sources

  • WHO — Influenza (seasonal) fact sheet
  • Russian health authorities and the health authority of your country — general recommendations

This page is based on general information about seasonal flu available at the time of writing. Advice is updated every season, so check with your doctor what is right for you and your family.