Influenza: symptoms and which specialist to see

Influenza

Reviewed by the medical team of El Doctor Editorial policy

Influenza is a respiratory infection caused by the flu viruses, which affects the nose, throat and, at times, the lungs. It usually appears during cold seasons and spreads easily from person to person.

Frequent symptoms:

Fever and chills
Body aches and headache
Cough, sore throat, and congestion
Significant fatigue

When to see a doctor? An evaluation is worthwhile if the fever is high or prolonged, if there is difficulty breathing, or in people at higher risk such as older adults, pregnant women, or those with chronic diseases.

Which professionals treat it? The general practitioner and the internist usually evaluate respiratory conditions; the infectious disease specialist and the pulmonologist get involved in more complex situations, and the pediatrician treats children. When symptoms worsen or do not subside, seeing a health professional is the best decision.

Data on 4,952 doctors who treat influenza

Typical price

$600 MXN

Much the same as the national median

50% charge between $300 and $1,000 MXN

33% with verified license 48 with 15+ years of experience 48 speak English

Insurance accepted

AXA Seguros 39 GNP Seguros 38 MetLife 38 Seguros Monterrey 35 Seguros Banorte 29 Allianz 26

Which specialist treats influenza?

Influenza is treated by a pediatrician in children or a general practitioner in adults, who can assess symptoms and guide management. Depending on the case, an internist, a pulmonologist, an infectious disease specialist, or a neonatologist may also be involved. Search for the right specialist.

Pediatrician General Practitioner Internist Pulmonologist Infectious Disease Specialist Pediatric Pulmonologist Neonatologist Critical Care and Intensive Care Specialist