What happens after a telemedicine visit for Influenza (Flu)

Audience: adult

After a telemedicine visit for influenza (flu), you will usually receive advice on managing your symptoms at home. This may include rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medicines to reduce fever and aches. Your healthcare provider might prescribe antiviral medications if you are at higher risk for complications or if treatment started early. You will also get instructions on when to seek urgent care if symptoms worsen. Follow-up may be recommended if symptoms do not improve or if you develop new concerns. Telemedicine helps you get timely advice without leaving home, but it cannot replace in-person exams if your condition becomes serious. Always watch for red flags like difficulty breathing, chest pain, or confusion and seek emergency care if these occur. This guidance helps you understand what to expect after your virtual visit and how to care for yourself safely.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath — seek emergency care immediately.
• Chest pain or pressure — seek emergency care immediately.
• Sudden confusion, inability to stay awake, or severe dizziness — seek emergency care immediately.

What telemedicine can do

• Initial assessment of flu symptoms.
• Advice on symptom management and home care.
• Prescribing antiviral medications when appropriate.
• Monitoring symptom progression through follow-up visits.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe respiratory distress requiring physical examination and emergency intervention.
• Complications such as pneumonia needing imaging and hospital care.
• Administration of intravenous fluids or oxygen therapy.
• Physical procedures or laboratory testing that require in-person attendance.

What to Expect Immediately After Your Telemedicine Visit

Your healthcare provider will review your symptoms and may suggest home care steps such as resting, drinking plenty of fluids, and using fever reducers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. If appropriate, antiviral medications may be prescribed to help shorten the illness. You will also receive advice on monitoring your symptoms and when to seek further care.

Managing Flu Symptoms at Home

Most people with flu recover at home without complications. Key steps include:

Follow your provider’s instructions carefully and complete any prescribed medications.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If you experience worsening symptoms or danger signs, you should seek emergency care. These include:

Telemedicine cannot replace physical exams or urgent treatments needed in these cases.

Follow-Up After Your Telemedicine Visit

Your provider may schedule a follow-up telemedicine visit or advise you to contact them if symptoms do not improve within a few days. If you develop new or worsening symptoms, do not hesitate to reach out for further evaluation. Keeping track of your symptoms can help guide your care.

Preventing Spread to Others

To protect those around you:

These steps help reduce flu transmission in your household and community.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Make a list of your symptoms and when they started.
• Have your temperature and any other vital signs recorded if possible.
• Prepare a list of current medications and allergies.
• Ensure a quiet and private space for your telemedicine visit.
• Have a thermometer and any prescribed medications nearby for discussion.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the home care instructions provided by your healthcare provider.
• Take prescribed antiviral medications as directed, if given.
• Monitor your symptoms daily and note any changes or worsening.
• Practice infection control measures to prevent spreading the flu.
• Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms worsen or new symptoms develop.

FAQs

How soon after flu symptoms start should I have a telemedicine visit?

It is best to seek care within the first 48 hours of symptom onset, especially if you are at higher risk for complications. Early treatment with antiviral medications is often more effective.

Can I get a flu test during a telemedicine visit?

Flu tests usually require a physical sample taken in person. Your provider may advise you to visit a testing center if needed based on your symptoms.

What should I do if my symptoms get worse after the telemedicine visit?

If you experience any red flags such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, or confusion, seek emergency care immediately. Otherwise, contact your healthcare provider for further advice.

Are antiviral medications always prescribed for the flu?

Not always. Antivirals are typically recommended for people at higher risk of complications or if treatment starts early. Your provider will decide based on your health and symptoms.

How long am I contagious after having the flu?

People with flu are usually contagious from about one day before symptoms start to about five to seven days after. Staying home and practicing good hygiene helps prevent spreading the virus.

Sources

1. Influenza (Flu) — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
2. Influenza — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
3. Influenza (Flu) - Symptoms and Causes — Mayo Clinic.
4. Influenza (Seasonal) Fact Sheet — World Health Organization (WHO).

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you have severe symptoms or emergency signs, seek immediate medical attention.