For most people, flu progresses through predictable stages.
Your fever could return and it may take time to regain your appetite.
Complications can lead to hospitalization or extend your health challenges long after the flu virus clears out.
South_agency / Getty Images
South_agency / Getty Images
How Long Does the Flu Last?
The flu can happen at any time, but the virus circulates most widely in the colder months.
Your risk of catching the flu is highest between December and March.
This time is the incubation period.
Most people start feeling sick within 48 hours of being exposed to the virus.
Flu symptoms come on fast and strong.
How Long Is the Flu Contagious?
Children and people with aweakened immune systemmay spread flu to others for longer than a week.
Symptoms
Commonflu symptomsinclude:
Gastrointestinal symptoms can happen but are not the main symptoms of influenza.
Those symptoms can be a sign that you have the flu and not a simple cold.
The FDA approved an over-the-counter test that detects the influenza A and B viruses and the COVID-19 virus.
They may also recommend some over-the-counter (OTC) products to help manage your symptoms.
Complications
The biggest risk of having the flu iscomplications.
Everyday hygiene and safety measureslike frequently washing hands and covering coughs and sneezesalso prevent the spread of the flu.
However, symptoms like a cough or fatigue may persist for two weeks.
These medications relieve symptoms and shorten your illness.
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