Most people who have the flu don’t need to be treated with antiviral drugs such as Tamiflu, though the drugs can shorten the duration of symptoms by 1 to 3 days if taken within the first 24 to 48 hours. But there are other ways to manage the symptoms.

“Treatment largely involves supportive care,” said Dr. Joshua Kosowsky, vice chair and clinical director of Brigham and Women’s Hospital’s emergency department. “It’s all the things your mother told you to do: rest, stay hydrated, take an over-the-counter painkiller and cough medicine.”