Superflu: Symptoms to Watch For and How to Deal With Them at Home

Over recent winters, especially this winter, many people have reported being hit by what’s commonly being called the “superflu” a particularly aggressive strain of flu that feels more intense, lasts longer, and leaves even normally resilient people feeling completely wiped out. 

Even those who have had their flu jab have found themselves struggling with severe symptoms.

While flu viruses vary from year to year, the key challenge with this superflu bug is the combination and persistence of symptoms, which can make day-to-day functioning almost impossible for a time.

Below is a clear guide to the most common symptoms and practical, realistic ways to manage them at home.

Common Symptoms of the Superflu

High Fever and Chills

A sudden spike in temperature is often one of the first signs. This can come with intense shivering, hot flushes, sweating, and a feeling of being unable to regulate body temperature.

How it feels:

Alternating between being freezing cold and unbearably hot, often accompanied by headaches and body aches.

Severe Fatigue and Weakness

This is not “normal tiredness.” Many people describe extreme exhaustion where even sitting up, showering, or holding a conversation feels like too much effort.

How it feels:

Heavy limbs, brain fog, dizziness, and the need to sleep for long stretches.

Persistent Cough and Chest Symptoms

A deep, painful cough is common, sometimes producing phlegm that may be yellow, green, or brownish in colour. Chest tightness and soreness from coughing can follow.

How it feels:

Burning or aching in the chest, disrupted sleep, and breathlessness after minimal activity.

Congestion, Sore Throat, and Sinus Pain

Blocked or streaming nose, sinus pressure, ear discomfort, and a raw or scratchy throat often appear together.

How it feels:

Facial pressure, headaches behind the eyes, painful swallowing, and post-nasal drip.

Gastrointestinal Upset (in some people)

Nausea, reduced appetite, stomach cramps, or diarrhoea can occur, particularly when fever is high.

How it feels:

Food aversion, dehydration risk, and weakness layered on top of existing fatigue.

Headaches and Sensitivity

Strong headaches, light sensitivity, and difficulty concentrating are frequently reported.

How it feels:

A pounding or tight band-like pain across the head, worsened by movement or noise.

How to Deal With Superflu Symptoms at Home

Rest Is Not Optional

This bug demands rest. Pushing through can significantly prolong recovery.

Stay in bed as much as possible

Cancel non-essential commitments

Accept help with meals, chores, or childcare if available

Hydration Is Critical

Fever and sweating quickly lead to dehydration.

Sip water regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty

Include warm drinks like herbal teas or hot water with lemon

Oral rehydration solutions can help if appetite is poor

Manage Fever and Pain Safely

Over-the-counter pain relief can help reduce fever, headaches, and body aches.

Use paracetamol or ibuprofen as directed

Avoid doubling up medications with similar ingredients

Lukewarm flannels can help with overheating

Ease Coughs and Congestion

Steam inhalation or a humidifier can soothe airways

Honey or syrup-based remedies may calm coughs

Prop yourself up with pillows at night to ease breathing

Gentle Nutrition

You may not feel like eating much, but small amounts help recovery.

Soups, broths, mashed foods, and toast are ideal

Avoid heavy, greasy meals

Eat little and often if possible

Support Sleep

Sleep may be broken by coughing or fever.

Nap when your body allows

Keep the room cool but comfortable

Reduce screen use before resting to avoid headaches

When to Seek Medical Advice

While most people will recover at home, do seek medical help if you experience:

Difficulty breathing or chest pain

Confusion or severe drowsiness

A fever that won’t come down

Symptoms lasting more than 7–10 days without improvement

Worsening cough or signs of a chest infection

The superflu is not something to “power through”. It is a serious, draining illness that demands rest, patience, and proper care. Listening to your body, staying hydrated, and giving yourself permission to stop are key to recovery.

If you’re currently dealing with it, be kind to yourself — recovery may be slow, but it will come.