This advice is suitable for adults and children over 6 years of age.
If you are caring for a child under the age of 6 who you think has a cold or flu, call NHS24 on 08454 24 24 24.

• Take simple painkillers such as paracetamol (for children use children’s liquid paracetamol, available from your local pharmacist). If you have a temperature this will help to bring it down. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for the correct dose. If you are pregnant, you should only take paracetamol as instructed by your GP or midwife.
• Make sure you drink enough fluid to keep yourself hydrated – water is best. This is particularly important if you have a temperature. Also, warm drinks can be soothing.
• A cough medicine may help to soothe a ticklish or dry cough. Cough medicines are available over-the-counter from your local pharmacist. Your pharmacist will be able to advise which is most suitable for you. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Try to rest and avoid strenuous activity.
• Keep the room at a comfortable temperature, but make sure that fresh air is circulating.
• Smoking or breathing in other people’s smoke can make a cold or flu worse. Try to avoid being around people who smoke and avoid smoke-filled environments like pubs or clubs. If you are a smoker, try to cut down or quit. See our information on quitting smoking and where can I get help with quitting smoking? for help and advice on how to quit.
• Consider others - you can reduce the risk of spreading colds and flu to other people by covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze and making sure you wash your hands regularly. Throw used tissues away immediately.
• Ask your pharmacist for more advice (find your nearest pharmacist), especially if you have a medical condition or you are taking prescription medicines.
• Colds and flu are usually ‘self-limiting’. This means that the body normally fights off the infection without the need for specific medical treatment. The symptoms of colds and flu usually clear within 4-10 days.

Flu vaccination is important for those more at risk from flu. You should ask your GP about having a flu vaccination if:

• you are 65 or over,
• you have a serious heart or chest complaint, including asthma,
• you have a long-term condition, such as kidney or liver disease,
• you have diabetes,
• you have reduced immunity due to disease (such as HIV/AIDS) or treatment (such as steroid medication or cancer treatment), or
• you are living in a nursing, residential or long-stay home.

Last Updated: 5th November, 2008