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How long does flu. How Long Does the Flu Last: Duration, Symptoms, and Treatment Guide

How long does the flu typically last. What are the common symptoms of influenza. When is the flu most contagious. How can you differentiate between flu, cold, and COVID-19. What are effective treatments for the flu. How can you protect yourself against influenza.

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Understanding Influenza: Symptoms and Duration

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a contagious viral infection that primarily affects the respiratory system. While its severity can vary, understanding its typical duration and symptoms is crucial for proper management and prevention of complications.

Common Flu Symptoms

  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Sore throat
  • Body aches
  • Headaches
  • Fatigue
  • Fever or feverish chills (in some cases)
  • Vomiting or diarrhea (less common)

It’s important to note that not everyone experiences all these symptoms, and their intensity can vary from person to person.

How Long Does the Flu Typically Last?

The duration of the flu can vary, but generally, it follows this timeline:

  1. Incubation period: 1-7 days (typically 2-3 days)
  2. Symptom onset: Symptoms usually appear suddenly
  3. Peak symptoms: 3-4 days after onset
  4. Symptom resolution: 4-7 days for most symptoms
  5. Full recovery: Up to 2 weeks for complete recovery

Dr. Gregory Buller, Chairman of Medicine and Associate Chief Medical Officer at Bridgeport Hospital in Connecticut, notes that these timelines can be subjective. He states, “Generally, symptoms last five to seven days, though those with weakened immune systems and infants may be symptomatic longer. Those with immune system problems and infants may be contagious for a longer period too.”

Flu vs. Cold vs. COVID-19: Differentiating the Illnesses

Given the similarity in symptoms, distinguishing between the flu, common cold, and COVID-19 can be challenging. While only a medical professional can provide a definitive diagnosis, understanding the key differences can help in initial assessment.

Flu vs. Cold

The flu typically presents with more severe symptoms compared to the common cold:

  • Flu: More likely to cause fever, aches, and chills
  • Cold: More commonly associated with sneezing and a runny nose
  • Duration: Flu usually lasts 5-7 days, while colds can persist for 7-10 days

Flu vs. COVID-19

Distinguishing between flu and COVID-19 can be more challenging:

  • Severity: COVID-19 symptoms tend to be more severe and last longer
  • Spread: COVID-19 is known to spread more easily than the flu
  • Unique symptoms: Loss of taste or smell is more common in COVID-19
  • Definitive diagnosis: Testing is required to differentiate between flu and COVID-19

The Contagious Period of Influenza

Understanding when the flu is most contagious is crucial for preventing its spread. The contagious period of influenza can begin before symptoms appear and extend beyond the resolution of symptoms.

When Is the Flu Most Contagious?

  • Pre-symptomatic period: One can be contagious before showing symptoms
  • Peak contagiousness: First 3-4 days after symptoms start
  • Extended contagious period: Up to 5-7 days after symptom onset

It’s important to note that even after feeling better, an individual can still spread the virus within the 5-7 day window after symptom onset. This underscores the importance of proper hygiene and isolation measures during recovery.

Treating the Flu: Effective Strategies for Recovery

While there’s no cure for the flu, several treatment strategies can help alleviate symptoms and speed up recovery. The approach to treatment often depends on the severity of symptoms and individual risk factors.

Over-the-Counter Medications

Several OTC medications can help manage flu symptoms:

  • Pain relievers (e.g., acetaminophen, ibuprofen) for fever and body aches
  • Decongestants for nasal congestion
  • Cough suppressants for persistent cough
  • Combination cold and flu medications

Always follow dosage instructions and consult a healthcare provider if unsure about which medications to take.

Antiviral Medications

In some cases, especially for high-risk individuals, antiviral medications may be prescribed:

  • Oseltamivir (Tamiflu)
  • Zanamivir (Relenza)
  • Peramivir (Rapivab)
  • Baloxavir marboxil (Xofluza)

These medications are most effective when started within 48 hours of symptom onset and can help reduce the duration and severity of the flu.

Home Remedies and Self-Care

Several home remedies can complement medical treatments and promote recovery:

  • Rest: Allow your body time to fight the infection
  • Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration
  • Humidification: Use a humidifier to ease congestion
  • Warm compresses: Apply to sinuses to relieve pressure
  • Saltwater gargles: To soothe a sore throat

High-Risk Groups: Who’s Most Vulnerable to Flu Complications?

While the flu can affect anyone, certain groups are at higher risk for severe complications. Identifying these high-risk populations is crucial for targeted prevention and treatment strategies.

Who Is Considered High-Risk?

  • Pregnant individuals
  • Children younger than 5 years old, especially those under 2
  • Adults 65 years and older
  • People with chronic medical conditions such as:
    • Asthma
    • Heart disease
    • Diabetes
    • Kidney or liver disorders
    • Obesity
  • Individuals with weakened immune systems

These groups are more likely to experience severe flu symptoms and develop complications such as pneumonia, myocarditis (inflammation of the heart), or encephalitis (inflammation of the brain).

Special Considerations for High-Risk Groups

If you fall into a high-risk category:

  • Get vaccinated annually
  • Seek medical attention promptly if flu symptoms develop
  • Consider antiviral medications as a preventive measure or early treatment
  • Practice rigorous hygiene and social distancing during flu season

Preventing the Flu: Effective Strategies for Protection

Prevention is key when it comes to influenza. By implementing a combination of vaccination, hygiene practices, and lifestyle choices, you can significantly reduce your risk of contracting and spreading the flu.

Annual Flu Vaccination

Getting an annual flu shot is one of the most effective ways to protect against influenza:

  • Recommended for everyone 6 months and older
  • Best time to get vaccinated is before flu season begins, typically by the end of October
  • Can reduce the risk of flu illness by 40-60% among the overall population
  • Even if you get the flu after vaccination, symptoms are often less severe

Hygiene Practices

Proper hygiene can significantly reduce the spread of the flu virus:

  • Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds
  • Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers when soap and water are unavailable
  • Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
  • Avoid touching your face, especially your mouth, nose, and eyes
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces

Lifestyle Choices

Certain lifestyle habits can boost your immune system and help prevent the flu:

  • Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables
  • Get regular exercise
  • Ensure adequate sleep (7-9 hours for adults)
  • Manage stress through relaxation techniques or meditation
  • Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption

When to Seek Medical Attention for Flu Symptoms

While most cases of the flu can be managed at home, certain symptoms or situations warrant immediate medical attention. Recognizing these warning signs is crucial for preventing serious complications.

Emergency Warning Signs in Adults

Seek immediate medical care if you experience:

  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
  • Persistent pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
  • Persistent dizziness, confusion, or inability to arouse
  • Seizures
  • Severe muscle pain
  • Severe weakness or unsteadiness
  • Fever or cough that improve but then return or worsen
  • Worsening of chronic medical conditions

Emergency Warning Signs in Children

For children, be alert for these additional signs:

  • Fast breathing or trouble breathing
  • Bluish lips or face
  • Ribs pulling in with each breath
  • Chest pain
  • Severe muscle pain (child refuses to walk)
  • Dehydration (no urine for 8 hours, dry mouth, no tears when crying)
  • Not alert or interacting when awake
  • Seizures
  • Fever above 104°F
  • In infants, inability to eat, no tears when crying, significantly fewer wet diapers than normal

Remember, these lists are not all-inclusive. If you’re concerned about your symptoms or those of a loved one, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare provider.

The Impact of Flu on Public Health and Society

The influenza virus not only affects individuals but also has significant implications for public health and society at large. Understanding these broader impacts can help emphasize the importance of prevention and prompt treatment.

Economic Impact

The flu can have substantial economic consequences:

  • Lost productivity due to sick days
  • Increased healthcare costs
  • Strain on healthcare systems during peak flu season

According to the CDC, annual economic burden of seasonal influenza in the United States is estimated at $11.2 billion.

Public Health Measures

To mitigate the impact of flu outbreaks, public health authorities often implement measures such as:

  • Vaccination campaigns
  • Public education on prevention and symptoms
  • Surveillance systems to track flu activity
  • Guidelines for schools and workplaces during outbreaks

Social Impact

The flu can affect social dynamics in various ways:

  • Disruption of school and work schedules
  • Increased caregiver burden for families
  • Potential for social isolation during recovery
  • Heightened awareness of personal and public hygiene

Understanding these broader impacts underscores the importance of individual and collective efforts in preventing and managing influenza outbreaks.

How Long Does The Flu Last? – Forbes Health

Table of Contents

  • How to Know if You Have the Flu

  • How Long Does the Flu Last?

  • Treating the Flu

  • How to Protect Yourself Against the Flu

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The colder months bring lower temperatures, shorter days and an increased risk of getting the flu. While usually not severe, the flu can be of higher concern for at-risk individuals. Luckily, there are things we can do to prevent the flu, treat this condition and stop its spread. Here’s what you need to know about the flu so you can enjoy a safe and healthy winter season.

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How to Know if You Have the Flu

Influenza, commonly called the flu, is a contagious viral infection.

A respiratory illness, mild to moderate cases of the flu can cause symptoms like runny nose, sore throat, body aches, headaches and fatigue. Some people with the flu may also experience a fever, feverish chills, vomiting or diarrhea, but not everyone has these symptoms.

If left untreated, the flu can lead to further health concerns, like sinus infections and pneumonia, according to the CDC. Some of these complications, such as pneumonia, myocarditis (inflammation of the heart) and encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) can lead to severe complications or, in rare cases, death.

Pregnant people, children younger than five, adults over 65 and those with pre-existing chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease are most at-risk for more severe flu symptoms and complications.

Telling the Difference Between the Flu, a Cold and COVID-19

While the flu is serious, it can occasionally be difficult to diagnose because symptoms are so similar to other illnesses, such as the common cold and COVID-19.

While only a medical professional like your general practitioner can make a true diagnosis, people with the flu are more likely to experience symptoms such as fever, aches and chills than people with a cold. Sneezing and a runny nose are more common with the cold.

Telling the difference between COVID-19 and the flu can be trickier. In the case of COVID-19, symptoms tend to be more severe and last longer, and it’s known to spread more easily than the flu. The only way to tell which you have for sure, however, is to test for both.

How Long Does the Flu Last?

Flu symptoms usually appear two to three days after contact with the virus, according to the University of Pennsylvania Health System, but you may start to feel sick anywhere from one to seven days after contracting it. After four to seven days, most symptoms should diminish, though fatigue and a persistent cough can last longer.

However, according to Gregory Buller, M.D., the Chairman of Medicine and Associate Chief Medical Officer at Bridgeport Hospital in Connecticut, these numbers are highly subjective and the flu can actually last longer. “Generally, symptoms last five to seven days, though those with weakened immune systems and infants may be symptomatic longer. Those with immune system problems and infants may be contagious for a longer period too,” he explains.

Those who have already gotten their flu shot may experience less severe symptoms which often go away earlier than the four-to-seven-day mark.

The flu doesn’t usually last as long as a cold (which the CDC states can last anywhere from seven to 10 days).

How Long is the Flu Contagious?

While not as contagious as COVID-19, the flu can spread rather quickly. Someone with the flu can pass the virus on to another person before any sign or symptoms, and five to seven days after symptoms develop. Usually, the flu is most contagious within the first three to four days after symptoms start.

Even if someone feels like they’ve recovered from the flu, it’s important to remember that they can still infect others within that five-to-seven-day window.

While the exact timeframe that one is contagious may be hard to pin down, a good way to know when it’s safer to be around people again is a lack of fever for 24 hours “without the need to use a fever-reducing medicine, such as Tylenol,” explains Michael Jhung, M. D., the associate director of epidemiologic science (ADES) in the CDC’s Influenza Division “Until then, you should stay home from work, school, travel, shopping, social events and public gatherings,” he continues.

This is especially important if you work in a school, medical facility or a setting where high-risk groups, such as those with chronic illnesses, the elderly and children younger than five, frequent, stresses Dr. Jhung. Stay away from family, coworkers and friends who are at high risk until you are completely sure your symptoms have gone away.

Treating the Flu

While most people will recover from the flu on their own, anyone who is over the age of 65, has a weakened immune system or chronic disease, lives in a nursing facility or is pregnant should see a doctor after they first notice flu-like symptoms, advises Dr. Buller. Additionally, severe cases of the flu—such as those that occur in individuals already in a hospital—may need to be treated with antiviral medication.

If you find yourself sick with the flu and don’t have any preexisting conditions that may put you at risk for complications, stay at home and rest as much as possible. Over-the-counter pain medications can help reduce fever and other symptoms. Staying warm and drinking enough fluids can also help.

If you find that your symptoms are not getting better or seem to be getting worse, the CDC recommends watching out for the following warning signs that the flu might be taking a turn for the worse:

  • Persistent chest pain or difficulty breathing
  • Seizures
  • A lack of urination
  • Severe weakness, muscle pain or unsteadiness
  • A worsening of medical conditions from a chronic illness
  • Symptoms that get better but then return

Warning signs differ for children and it’s always best to discuss personalized warning signs with your doctor since the CDC’s list is not exhaustive.

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How to Protect Yourself Against the Flu

The best way to protect yourself from the flu and complications from it is to get your annual flu shot. Approximately two weeks after getting your flu shot, your body is better suited to avoid the strain of the virus most prevalent in a given year. Not only are you less likely to contract the flu after getting the shot, but symptoms should be less severe and disappear quicker if you have your shot.

Despite its effectiveness, the flu shot is not recommended for infants under six months and anyone with an allergy to gelatin, antibiotics or other flu shot ingredients. If you have an egg allergy or have had Guillain-Barré Syndrome, a condition where a person’s own immune system attacks their nerves, consult your doctor before getting the shot.

Along with getting a flu shot, you can lower your chances of contracting the flu by practicing healthy habits. “In addition to flu vaccination, take everyday preventive actions that are recommended to reduce the spread of flu like avoiding close contact with people who are sick, limiting contact with others if you’re sick, covering coughs and sneezes and washing hands often with soap and water,” states Dr. Jhung.

The CDC also recommends refraining from touching your face when in public, disinfecting surfaces and staying hydrated. Eating well and getting enough sleep can also boost your immune system against the flu.

While the flu is a serious illness, there are many ways to protect yourself against it, from getting your flu shot to naturally boosting your immune system. If you do get the flu, there’s a good chance you’ll be able to recover at home and be back to business as usual within a week.

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How Long Does the Flu Last? Stages & Symptoms

Key takeaways

  • The flu is a respiratory virus affecting the throat, nose, and sometimes the lungs.

  • It typically takes about two weeks to recover from the flu.

     

  • You are contagious two days before symptoms appear and up to seven days after they appear.

     

When symptoms like a sore throat and stuffy nose set in, you often wonder two things: What is this, and how long will it last? You could be dealing with allergies, a cold, or the flu, and each has a different timeline. How long the flu lasts depends on your general health but in general usually lasts about one to two weeks.

In this article, we break down the lifecycle of the flu, including how long you may experience symptoms, when you are contagious, and how long you should avoid interacting with others. We also advise when you should consider seeing a doctor. 

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How Long the Flu Lasts

The influenza virus causes the flu, a contagious respiratory sickness that affects the throat, nose, and sometimes the lungs. For healthy individuals, the flu is typically a fairly short-term illness, lasting no longer than a week or two. Luckily, you won’t feel miserable the entire time. Below is a timeline of a bout of the flu.

Incubation period

The time from when you’re exposed to a virus until symptoms first begin is called the incubation period. For the flu, this takes one to four days, with an average of two days. This means you may be contagious a day or two before symptoms start and can unknowingly spread the virus during that time.

Symptoms appear

Symptoms like cough, sore throat, fever, and runny nose generally show up one to four days after being exposed to the influenza virus. Not everyone has the same symptoms, and certain symptoms, like vomiting and diarrhea, are more common in children or with certain strains of the flu. If your symptoms are severe or you are immunocompromised, consider seeking medical care at this time. 

Symptoms peak

Flu symptoms generally peak two to four days after they begin, then begin to gradually improve on their own. You are also most contagious three to four days after symptoms start. Symptoms may include:

  • Fever or chills
  • Cough
  • Sore throat
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Body aches
  • Headaches
  • Fatigue

Symptoms taper off

For otherwise healthy individuals, flu symptoms typically begin tapering off five days after they start. However, coughing and a general “sick” feeling may last for more than two weeks, especially for the elderly and those with chronic lung disease. 

Recovery

With rest, over-the-counter (OTC) medications, and plenty of fluids, you’ll be on the road to recovery in no time. However, even as you begin to feel better, it’s important to stay away from others for a little while to ensure you don’t spread the flu. You are contagious from 5-7 days after symptoms emerge, so it’s best to stay home for a week after you first begin feeling sick. If fever is one of your symptoms, stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone.  

How Long Are You Contagious?

The flu virus is thought to spread by tiny droplets released into the air when sick people cough, sneeze, or talk. These droplets land on surfaces others may touch or go directly into the other person’s eyes, nose, or mouth causing them to get sick. 

If you have the flu, you were contagious even before you had symptoms. Before people start feeling symptoms, they are contagious for one or two days. Once symptoms start, you are contagious for the first five to seven days after getting sick. People with weakened immune symptoms or children, may be contagious for even longer. 

How to Treat the Flu

Prompt treatment with antiviral drugs, within two days of getting symptoms, may lessen symptoms and shorten the duration of your sickness by one or two days. They may also prevent severe complications like pneumonia. Not everyone needs antiviral drugs but those with compromised immune systems or the elderly may benefit.  

If you have the flu, be sure to stay home and distance yourself from others. If you do need to go out for any reason, wear a mask, cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue, and wash your hands frequently. Allow yourself plenty of time to rest and be sure to keep yourself hydrated. 

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When to See a Doctor

With proper self-care, the flu typically goes away on its own, especially if you are otherwise healthy.

However, certain high-risk people should seek medical care when they come down with the flu to help watch for and prevent any serious complications such as pneumonia.

This includes: 

  • Adults 65 and older
  • Anyone with chronic illnesses (especially those that affect the lungs or immune system)
  • Pregnant people
  • Very young children with severe symptoms

Antiviral medications can help make flu symptoms go away about one day faster.

However, these need to be started within 72 hours of symptoms appearing, they can have bothersome side effects, and they do not prevent serious complications like hospitalization, pneumonia, or death.

Your healthcare provider can help you determine if these medications are right for you.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the fastest way to recover from the flu?

The best thing you can do to recover from the flu as fast as possible is to stay hydrated, rest, and isolate. There is no cure for the flu, antibiotics are ineffective against it, and antiviral medications like oseltamivir (Tamiflu) only make symptoms go away about one day more quickly and can have side effects. Over-the-counter medications may provide some relief from symptoms, but they do not make the flu go away any faster.

How long does immunity to the flu last after getting sick?

Because there are so many different strains, it’s hard to say how long immunity to the flu lasts after getting sick. On the other hand, if you get the flu shot, you’re protected against multiple variations of the virus for about six months.

How long should you stay at home with the flu?

Because the flu easily spreads from person to person, it’s important to stay home when you may be contagious. Generally, this is from a day before and up to seven days after symptoms start. So stay home for a week after you first feel sick to help keep others safe.

K Health articles are all written and reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, or PharmDs and are for informational purposes only. This information does not constitute and should not be relied on for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment.

K Health has strict sourcing guidelines and relies on peer-reviewed studies, academic research institutions,
and medical associations. We avoid using tertiary references.

  • Am I Still Contagious? (2018).
    https://www.cedars-sinai.org/blog/am-i-still-contagious.html

  • Flu: What To Do If You Get Sick. (2021).
    https://www.cdc.gov/flu/treatment/takingcare.htm

  • Flu Season. (2021).
    https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/season/flu-season.htm

  • Flu Symptoms & Diagnosis. (2021).
    https://www.cdc.gov/flu/symptoms/index.html

  • How Flu Spreads. (2018).
    https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/disease/spread.htm

  • How Long Does the Flu Last? (2020).
    https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/how-long-does-the-flu-last

  • Preventive Steps. (2021).
    https://www.cdc.gov/flu/prevent/prevention.htm

  • What Are the Benefits of Flu Vaccination? (2021).
    https://www.cdc.gov/flu/prevent/vaccine-benefits.htm

  • Key facts about influenza (Flu). (2022.)
    https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/keyfacts.htm

How long the flu is contagious and the first signs of the disease

According to the World Health Organization, about 1 billion people in the world become infected with the flu every year. The peak of activity of this severe viral infection occurs in autumn and winter. Due to the possible severe course of the disease, influenza is especially distinguished from other acute respiratory viral infections.

Influenza symptoms

The severity of the symptoms and how long the flu lasts depends on the person’s health and age. The disease is more difficult for children, pregnant women, the elderly, people with weakened immune systems and chronic diseases.

The main difference between influenza is an acute onset: the temperature rises sharply (up to 38-39.5 degrees), but on the first day there are no catarrhal phenomena. There are signs of infectious intoxication:

On the second or third day, cough, chest pain, runny nose may appear. In the absence of complications, the fever lasts 2-4 days, and the person recovers in 7-10 days.

How long flu is contagious

The virus spreads rapidly through the air. The incubation period is several days, during which a person already becomes contagious – before the first signs appear, and then another 5 days (for adults) or up to 7 days (for young children).

Prevention of influenza

Doctors recommend the following measures to prevent influenza infection:

  • strengthening immunity

  • regular and thorough hand hygiene

  • 900 02 ventilation of premises

  • vaccination – according to indications

For reinforcement The body’s defenses are important to a healthy lifestyle with a sufficient level of physical activity and a balanced diet, as well as taking vitamins.

Vitamins for the prevention of influenza

First of all, you need to pay attention to the 3 main trace elements with immunostimulating properties: vitamin C, vitamin D and Omega-3.

Vitamin C is a water-soluble micronutrient that our body cannot synthesize on its own, so it must be obtained from food. Participates in many important processes and performs the following actions:

  • increases the activity of natural killer cells – a special type of lymphocytes that are responsible for human innate immunity

  • strengthens cell membranes and prevents the penetration of viruses

  • neutralizes free radicals that can damage cells and cause the development of various diseases, as well as premature aging

  • reduces the duration of viral infections

Vitamin D is produced in the skin under the influence of ultraviolet light. Due to insufficient sun exposure, many people are deficient in this vitamin, so doctors recommend taking it extra. The main task of vitamin D is to promote the absorption of calcium and phosphorus, but its benefits in other areas have also been proven:

  • strengthening immunity, reducing the risk of developing infectious diseases0004

  • Improvement of physical endurance

  • Maintaining health of the cardiovascular system

omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids are indispensable and should be present in the human diet. They are contained in cell membranes, regulate metabolism, and also:

  • activate the immune system

  • provide an antioxidant effect

  • help maintain tone, energy and good mood

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How many days do people get sick with the flu: the incubation period of the flu – December 22, 2022

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The incidence of SARS and influenza in Russia continues to grow, and, according to Rospotrebnadzor, the majority of patients are ill with influenza – it was detected in 70% of patients with symptoms of an acute respiratory viral infection. Of course, few people take the flu as seriously as covid, and this is understandable – the majority endure the disease without complications. However, for those who are at risk – the elderly, young children, patients with chronic diseases, it can be deadly. That is why the patient should, if possible, isolate himself from them while he is contagious.

— In complicated cases of SARS, that is, a viral infection and influenza, well, about seven days from the onset of the disease, that is, from the onset of symptoms, says Dr. Andrey Pozdnyakov. – As a rule, further the body completely eliminates the virus from itself and the person is no longer contagious. Therefore, about a week, sometimes less, especially if a person has met this virus before.

Andrey Pozdnyakov — infectious disease specialist, candidate of medical sciences, chief physician of the clinical diagnostic laboratory of OOO INVITRO-Siberia.

At the same time, a person will no longer be contagious in a week, even if the symptoms and complications of the disease persist. Even if a secondary bacterial infection joins, there is no contagiousness at this point, as with covid.

– In order for a person to be contagious, it is necessary that a sufficient amount of viral particles be released from the upper respiratory tract per unit time, – explains immunologist Nikolai Kryuchkov. When the symptoms go away, the person is no longer contagious. But if you need to determine exactly, then you need to look at PCR by this moment. If the PCR is negative, then the person is not contagious.

Nikolai Kryuchkov — Immunologist, General Director of LLC Clinical Excellence Group, Associate Professor of the I. M. Sechenov Medical University.

The most insidious in terms of contagiousness is the extremely mild course of the flu. A person may feel only mild manifestations of symptoms, but not pay attention to them, because they do not interfere in any way.

– At the same time, it can be contagious – however, the contagious period will be shorter. That is, this is not an incubation period, but, as it were, an infection, but very weakly manifested, – says Nikolai Kryuchkov.

The incubation period for influenza is less than a week, and during the incubation period, a person does not spread the virus, contagiousness occurs just before the onset of symptoms. For covid, for example, this is about a day before the onset of symptoms, and for the flu even later – a few hours.

Influenza, like other acute respiratory viral infections, usually begins with weakness, fever, general malaise. The head of Rospotrebnadzor, Anna Popova, noted earlier that the so-called swine flu, which is circulating this year, does not have any specific symptoms. However, it has its own characteristics – it causes an active epidemic process in high seasons, that is, when there are more cases than usual – these occur about once every five years.

Because more people get sick, there are more deaths during swine flu years. Statistics on the number of cases and deaths from influenza in recent months has not yet been published, but individual reports of deaths come from different regions. Recently, we talked about the sudden deaths of children diagnosed with SARS – in early December, several such cases became known at once.

  • Doctors say that ARVI and flu spread during the cold season, but it can be said that it has just begun. Understanding how long the flu outbreak will last;
  • Along with the increase in the incidence of influenza, the daily increase in covid patients is also growing. Read what happens if you get infected with two viruses at once;
  • nevertheless, no anti-epidemic measures were introduced at the federal level.