Flu season is hitting hard this year, and cases are spreading fast. Health experts warn that the next few weeks could see even more people falling ill. So far this season, there have been over 12 million flu infections, leading to thousands of hospitalizations and sadly, thousands of deaths.

One common treatment doctors recommend for those at high risk is Tamiflu, an antiviral medication. It can help ease symptoms and cut recovery time by about a day. But here’s the kicker: it works best when taken within the first 48 hours of feeling sick. The tricky part? Figuring out if that runny nose or headache is actually the flu or just a cold.

Good news: New at-home tests can now check for both Covid and the flu, making it easier to decide whether to ask your doctor about Tamiflu.

So, how does Tamiflu work? It’s designed to fight off influenza A and B viruses by stopping the virus from spreading in your body. It’s not a miracle cure—you won’t feel instantly better—but it can shave off a day or so of feeling miserable, which can make a big difference for many.

If you suspect you’ve caught the flu, especially if you’re in a high-risk group, don’t wait too long to seek advice. Early action could make all the difference.