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WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR

See a doctor if—

  • Your symptoms do not improve after 3 weeks or your symptoms suddenly get worse
  • You have a long-term medical condition (like diabetes or a heart, lung, kidney or neurological disease)
  • You have a weakened immune system (for example, because you’re undergoing chemotherapy)
  • For adults
    • Fever greater than 101.3°F (38.5°C)
    • Fever lasting 5 days or more
    • Fever returning after a fever-free period
    • Shortness of breath
    • Wheezing
    • Severe sore throat, headache or sinus pain

WHY TO SEE A DOCTOR?

Some people have a risk of developing complications, for example secondary (or additional) bacterial infections or complications—

  • Acute ear infection when bacteria attack the space behind the eardrum
  • Strep throat caused by streptococcal bacteria
  • Bronchitis or pneumonia when the lungs or parts of the lungs become irritated or inflamed