Skip to chat with us. Skip to content

Please note prescriptions are only available in Canada and given at the doctor's discretion.

Flu (influenza) treatment, diagnosis & prescriptions

Skip the waiting room! Instantly connect with Canadian doctors for medical care from your phone, tablet or computer - any time, 24/7.

  • This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.

Doctors Online Now

Get a confidential diagnosis by text, video or audio chat.

Can a doctor treat a flu on Maple?

In most cases, diagnosing the flu is something our doctors can do online by asking about your symptoms.

If the doctor suspects you have the flu virus, they can prescribe antiviral medication to reduce the duration of the illness.

Doctors can also write sick notes for the flu in the case you need to be excused from work, school, or other situations.

Can I get a prescription on Maple?

Yes, our physicians can prescribe medications online during your consultation. Once you accept a prescription, you’ll have the option to pick it up from any pharmacy or we’ll deliver it right to your door at no additional cost.

You can visit our How it Works page to learn more.

What is a flu?

The flu is a contagious viral infection that affects your upper respiratory system (nose, throat, lungs). People often confuse the flu with the common cold, but it is a distinct illness accompanied by more serious symptoms. Unlike the common cold, the flu can be deadly, and is one of the top 10 causes of death in developed nations.

It is commonly spread when people infected by the virus cough or sneeze, and it can also be transmitted by touching surfaces or objects contaminated with the virus.

Once you’re exposed to the flu virus, it takes 1-4 days before symptoms begin to appear, so it’s often hard to pinpoint exactly where you got it from.

What are the symptoms of a flu?

Symptoms include:

  • Body aches and pain
  • Chills
  • Dry cough
  • Fatigue and weakness
  • Fever of 38 C (100.4 F) or higher
  • Headache
  • Nasal congestion
  • Sore throat
How can I treat a flu?

Treatments for the flu usually include getting enough rest and fluids in your system. In some cases, you can also get flu prescriptions of antiviral medications to shorten the length and severity of the illness. Over-the-counter pain medicines can be used to reduce body aches and headaches if needed.

Flu tests are available, usually in the form of a nasal swab, but are not always needed, as doctors can diagnose a flu based on symptoms alone.

The best way to prevent catching the flu is to avoid coming in contact with the flu virus.

  • Get the flu shot
  • Avoid contact with people who are sick
  • Cover your nose and mouth when sneezing and coughing
  • Disinfect surfaces often
  • Limit touching your eyes, mouth, and nose
  • Wash your hands with soap and water often. Use hand sanitizer when soap and water isn’t available
What is Maple?

With Maple, you can start consulting with a doctor about your symptoms in a matter of minutes. We’re a healthcare app for fast, convenient 24/7 access to Canadian doctors.

You simply log in, tap a button to request a consultation, and we’ll immediately connect you to a doctor via live chat or video.

Our doctors can assess symptoms, and provide treatment, including prescriptions as necessary.

You can visit our How it Works page to learn more.

Proudly featured in:

Logo for Global News, a news network in Canada
Media logo for The Globe and Mail newspaper
Media logo for The Star, Canadas largest news website
Logo for CBC, aka the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation
Logo for CTV News, a Canadian television network
Media logo for the National Post newspaper

Patients love using Maple

Read our social media reviews, or download the app

A fantastic way to get medical advice when you are unable to see someone in person. The app is so simple to use. Highly recommend. I am not a tech savvy person but the doctor was kind enough to patiently walk me through every step of the process. Thank you.

— Google Play Store

This app is amazing! The doctor was so professional. I just waited 1-2 mins to get served! I highly recommend this app.

— Google Play Store

The service has been amazing for our family. The doctors are kind, thorough, and ask all the right questions. As a busy family of five, this app has been a life saver

— App store review

Super impressed with this service. Without a family doctor, it’s easy to feel alone with no care. Very thankful to have options.

— Google Play Store User

So fast and efficient. A process that would have ordinarily involved a referral and a six months wait was completed in less than 72 hours. Wholeheartedly recommend Maple.

— Google Review

At 1:30 am, I realized I had a UTI and was desperate for help. I went online and within ten minutes, I had my prescription faxed to my pharmacy. This service gave me peace of mind.

— Trustpilot Review

Maple was there for me when other doctors couldn't be. So convenient. Any time, any day. I am grateful for this service.

— Trustpilot Review

We needed to see a doctor over the weekend as our pediatrician was not available. Logging into Maple and choosing from a selection of specialties was quick and easy. Excellent service!

— Trustpilot Review

Very easy to navigate Maple. It’s secure and trusted. Maple has truly gone above and beyond with their app. Highly recommended.

— Trustpilot Review

Amazing service! It was great being able to connect with a doctor from the comfort of home late at night.

— Trustpilot Review

Treatable conditions

Mental health

Our doctors are available to provide advice and treatment for common mental health conditions.

Storm cloud icon
Women’s/men’s health

Doctors can advise on family planning and treat conditions, including urinary tract infections and erectile dysfunction.

Hanging underwear icon

Get started today.

Maple revolves around your needs and schedule. Start enjoying on demand healthcare that fits your life.

Illustration of a woman carrying her grocery bags while contacting a doctor online using Maple