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Did you know that hair loss could be a delayed symptom of flu? Robert Bradshaw, superintendent pharmacist at Oxford Online Pharmacy, says it can be – although it is unusual.

“When you have the flu, your body often experiences physiological stress as the immune system works harder to fight off the virus,” he explains. “The immune response can strain your body, causing inflammation, fever, a hormone surge and dehydration.”

This reaction, exacerbated by nutritional deficiencies, can cause stress-related hair loss, as hair follicles enter a premature resting phase. “The condition is characterised by excessive hair shedding and noticeable thinning, which generally occurs two to three months after the illness, when the resting phase ends,” says Mr Bradshaw.

While the hair loss is only temporary, it is always worth referring customers to the pharmacist, who may recommend an OTC hair loss treatment. Self-care tips may help too – such as pre-emptively having a flu jab to help reduce the severity of symptoms, trying stress management techniques and eating a healthy, balanced diet.