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How long should flu last: How Long Does the Flu Typically Last?

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Influenza (flu) – Better Health Channel

What is influenza (flu)?

Influenza (flu) is a highly contagious viral infection of the respiratory tract that can cause severe illness and life-threatening complications (including pneumonia). It affects people of all ages. The flu is usually spread by breathing in droplets from coughs and sneezes that contain the virus.

The flu is a seasonal infection that usually occurs from April to September. Flu seasons vary in severity and duration from year to year. In a year of high influenza activity, it is estimated that the flu can contribute to more than 3,300 deaths in Australia.

Even healthy people can sometimes die from the flu. Some Victorians are at increased risk of serious disease and complications of flu, like young children, the elderly, pregnant women, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and people with a weakened immune system or a chronic medical condition.

During 2023, amidst the fourth year of the COVID-19 pandemic in Australia, continued seasonal flu activity is anticipated as borders remain open and interstate and international travel increases.

Vaccination is key to protecting yourself and those around you from the flu.

Symptoms of the flu

The most common symptoms of the flu are:

  • sudden appearance of a high fever (38°C or more)
  • a dry cough
  • body aches (especially in the head, lower back and legs)
  • feeling extremely weak and tired (and not wanting to get out of bed).

Other symptoms can be:

  • chills
  • aching behind the eyes
  • loss of appetite
  • sore throat
  • runny or stuffy nose.

Having the flu is even more likely if you have been in contact with someone who already has it.

Diagnosing the flu

Flu and other kinds of viruses can only be confirmed by a doctor after a nose or throat swab has returned positive results.

Difference between the flu and COVID-19

The symptoms of COVID-19External Link and the flu can be similar.

If you are unwell with flu-like symptoms, contact the COVID-19External Link hotline on 1800 675 398 (24 hours, 7 days a week) or your GP to check if you require COVID-19 testing.

The symptoms of COVID-19 to watch out for are:

  • loss or change in sense of smell or taste
  • fever
  • chills or sweats
  • cough
  • sore throat
  • shortness of breath
  • runny nose.

Some people may also experience headache, muscle soreness, stuffy nose, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea.

What to expect with the flu

Symptoms of the flu can hit very quickly and may last several weeks. A bout of the flu typically follows this pattern:

  • Days 1–3: Sudden appearance of fever, headache, muscle pain and weakness, dry cough, sore throat and sometimes a stuffy nose.
  • Day 4: Fever and muscle aches decrease. Hoarse, dry or sore throat, cough and possible mild chest discomfort become more noticeable. You may feel tired or flat.
  • Day 8: Symptoms decrease. Cough and tiredness may last one to two weeks or more.

What about flu complications?

In some cases of the flu, severe illness and complications (such as pneumonia and bronchitis) can develop. This can result in hospitalisation and even death.

The flu can also make some existing medical conditions worse.

In Victoria, flu vaccination is free for people with a higher risk of severe complications associated with the flu:

  • all children aged 6 months to less than 5 years
  • Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people from 6 months and over
  • pregnant women – at any stage of pregnancy
  • people 65 years and over
  • people aged 6 months and older with medical conditions putting them at higher risk of severe flu and its complications:
    • cardiac disease
    • chronic respiratory conditions
    • chronic neurological conditions
    • immunocompromising conditions
    • diabetes and other metabolic disorders
    • renal disease
    • haematological disorders
    • children aged 6 months to 10 years on long term aspirin therapy.

Speak to your immunisation provider to see if you meet the eligibility for free flu vaccine.

How can I avoid getting the flu?

Getting a flu vaccine every year is recommended for everyone aged 6 months or older. People in the above groups are eligible for free flu vaccination each year under the National Immunisation ProgramExternal Link.

While not 100% effective, the flu vaccine provides a high level of protection and can reduce symptoms in those still getting sick.

COVID-19 vaccinesExternal Link can be co-administered (that is, given on the same day, one after the other) with a flu vaccineExternal Link. Speak to your immunisation provider for advice about COVID-19 and flu vaccines for children aged 6 months to less than 5 years.

Wearing a face mask and practicing good hand hygiene can help to reduce your chances of catching the flu or passing it on to others.

I think I have the flu – should I see a doctor?

Anyone at a higher risk of serious illness with flu-like symptoms should see their doctor as soon as possible.

Most people who are generally healthy won’t need to see their doctor for the flu. As symptoms of the flu are similar to COVID-19, talk to your doctor about testing for COVID-19 infection.

If you have the flu, try to rest, maintain a good fluid intake, and manage your symptoms. This will help you recover and prevent dehydration. Your immune system will fight the infection and symptoms will usually clear up on their own.

If you do need to see a GP for your symptoms, make sure you call ahead first so they can make sure there’s no one in an at-risk group around when you have your appointment.

When to seek medical attention

See your doctor if you have any concerns or are in a high-risk group for severe infection. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following symptoms:

  • difficulty breathing
  • chest pain
  • sudden dizziness
  • confusion
  • severe vomiting
  • fever with a rash.

How can I avoid giving the flu to other people?

It is important we all play our part in helping fight the flu and to protect our health system.

Aside from getting your flu shot, follow these 3 simple steps to stop the spread of the flu:

Step 1 – Cough or sneeze into your elbow

If you feel a cough or sneeze is coming on, make sure to cough or sneeze into your elbow. It’s a part of your body less likely to touch other surfaces and will help stop the spread of nasty germs.

Step 2 – Wash your hands thoroughly and regularly

  • Our hands are one of the top spreaders of viruses. The flu virus is carried in almost invisible droplets from saliva, sneezes, coughs, and runny noses.
  • Flu viruses can live on surfaces such as lift buttons or handrails for up to 48 hours and are spread when people touch an infected surface.
  • Wash your hands thoroughly and often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds – especially if you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, sneezing or using the toilet. If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitiser containing at least 60% alcohol.

Step 3 – Rest and recover at home

  • If you are sick, rest at home and drink plenty of fluids. Avoid going out, even to the supermarket, where you risk spreading the virus to others. Wear a mask if you need to go out.
  • If you start to experience more serious symptoms, seek medical attention.

Looking after yourself when you have the flu

The best things you can do to look after yourself when you have the flu are:

  • Rest – you will probably feel very weak and tired until your temperature returns to normal (about 3 days). Rest provides comfort and allows your body to use its energy to fight the infection.
  • Stay at home – stay away from work, school and any places where you may have contact with others, especially while you are contagious. The period during which adults are contagious is usually around 3–5 days from when the first symptoms appear, and up to 7 days in younger children.
  • Drink plenty of fluids – extra fluids are needed to replace those lost because of the fever (through sweating). If your urine is dark, you need to drink more. Try to drink a glass of fluids, such as water, every hour while you are awake.

What medications should I take for the flu?

The flu is a viral infection so antibiotics won’t help and should not be taken.

Antiviral medications, if started in the first 2 days after symptoms start, can shorten the length of your illness. These need to be prescribed by your doctor.

Decongestants and simple pain relievers can help you feel better while your body’s immune system fights off the infection.

Tips for buying over-the-counter medications

Follow these tips for buying over-the-counter medication for the flu:

  • Buy a remedy that treats only one symptom – this way you are not taking any substances you do not need, or that may trigger an adverse reaction.
  • Read the medication label and check:
    • whether the active ingredient treats your symptoms
    • possible side effects
    • possible interactions with any medications, (including prescription and over-the-counter, medicines (such as vitamins and mineral supplements and herbal medicines)
    • whether the medication is safe for you to take if you have any health conditions
  • If you are unsure if a medication is suitable for you to take, or if you have any other questions, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. They can suggest a medication that is appropriate and safe for you to take.

Useful tips to aid recovery from the flu

Other useful flu recovery tips include:

  • Take simple pain-relieving medication (such as paracetamol or ibuprofen), as directed on the packet, to ease muscle pain and bring down your fever (unless your doctor says otherwise).
  • Never give any medications that contain aspirin to children (under 12 years) unless advised by a doctor. The combination of the flu and aspirin in this age group has been known to cause Reye’s syndromeExternal Link – a very serious condition affecting the nervous system and liver.
  • Antibiotics are not effective against the flu because influenza is a virus, and antibiotics fight bacteria. However, your doctor may prescribe them if you develop a bacterial infection on top of the flu.
  • Gargle with a glass of warm water to ease a sore throat. Sucking on sugar-free lollies or lozenges also helps.
  • A hot water bottle or heating pad may help relieve muscle pain. A warm bath may also be soothing.
  • Use saline nose drops or spray to help soothe or clear a stuffy nose. These decongestants help shrink swollen blood vessels in the nose. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about which medication will be the best for you.
  • Do not smoke – this will irritate your damaged airways.
  • Try warm, moist air inhalation. Boil a kettle, wait a minute for the water to slightly cool, and carefully empty the hot water into a bowl. Place the bowl on a steady surface, such as a table. Put a towel over your head and inhale the warm air in the bowl for up to 20 minutes. There is no need to add anything to the water. Be careful not to touch the water and keep it out of reach of children.
  • Ask for help if you live alone or care for others. You may need support until you feel better.
  • Remember, if you buy medicine at the pharmacy to treat your symptoms (over-the-counter medications), check with the pharmacist to see which one is right for you. Let them know if you have a chronic illness or are taking any other medication.

Where to get help

  • In an emergency, always call triple zero (000)
  • Your GP (doctor)
  • NURSE-ON-CALL Tel. 1300 60 60 24 – for expert health information and advice (24 hours, 7 days)
  • Your pharmacist
  • National Immunisation ProgramExternal Link

The Flu: What Parents Need to Know


By: Flor M. Muñoz, MD, MSc, FAAP & Kristina A. Bryant, MD, FAAP


Flu—short for influenza—is an illness caused by a respiratory virus. The flu can spread rapidly through communities, as the virus is passed person to person.

When someone with the flu coughs or sneezes, the influenza virus gets into the air. Then, people nearby, including children, can inhale it through the nose or mouth.

The virus also can be spread when people touch a contaminated hard surface, such as a door handle, and then put their hands or fingers in their nose or mouth, or rub their eyes.

When is flu season?

The flu season usually starts in the fall and can last until the end of spring. Ideally, children should get an annual flu shot as soon as it is available, ideally no later than the end of October. (See “Which Flu Vaccine Should Children Get?”)

When there is an outbreak or epidemic, usually during the winter months, the illness tends to be most frequent in preschool or school-aged children. Flu viruses are known to spread quickly among
college students and teens, too.

In the first few days of illness, the virus is easily transmitted to other children, parents and caregivers.

It is important for anyone age 6 months old and older to get the flu vaccine each year. Everyone age 6 months and older should also get COVID-19 vaccines. The COVID vaccine and flu vaccine can safely be given at the same time or at any time one after the other.

Flu symptoms include:

  • A sudden
    fever (usually above 100.4°F or 38°C)

  • Chills

  • Headache, body aches, and being a lot more tired than usual

  • Sore throat

  • Dry, hacking cough

  • Stuffy, runny nose

  • Some children may throw up (vomit) and have loose stools (diarrhea).

After the first few days of these symptoms, a sore throat, stuffy nose, and continuing cough become most evident. The flu can last a week or even longer. A child with a
common cold usually has only a low-grade fever, a runny nose, and only a small amount of coughing. Children with the flu—or adults, for that matter—usually feel much sicker, achier and more miserable than those with just a cold.

Kids with chronic health conditions at greater risk


Any child can develop severe, life-threatening influenza. Children who are at especially high risk for developing complications from the flu are those with an underlying chronic medical condition, such as lung, heart, or kidney disease, an immune system condition, cancer, diabetes, some blood diseases or conditions of the muscular or central nervous system.

These children may have more severe disease or complications. It is important for them to be vaccinated and, when possible, avoid other children with the flu or flu-like symptoms. Their pediatrician may suggest other precautions that should be taken.

If your child has any of these chronic health conditions and flu-like symptoms along with any difficulty breathing, seek medical attention right away. There can be serious complications, even death, from the flu, but thanks to the flu vaccine these are less common.

Flu treatment

Children may benefit from extra rest and drinking lots of fluids when they get the flu.

If your child is uncomfortable because of a fever,
acetaminophen or
ibuprofen in doses recommended by your pediatrician for his age and weight will help him feel better. Ibuprofen is approved for use in children age 6 months and older; however, it should never be given to children who are
dehydrated or who are vomiting continuously.

It is extremely important never to give aspirin to a child who has the flu or is suspected of having the flu. Aspirin during bouts of influenza is associated with an increased risk of developing
Reye syndrome.

Antiviral medicine for the flu: available by prescription

Your pediatrician can help decide whether or not to treat the flu with an
antiviral medicine. Antiviral medicine works best if started within the first one to two days of showing signs of the flu. However, in some children with increased risk for influenza complications, treatment could be started later.

Call your pediatrician within 24 hours of the first flu symptom to ask about antiviral medications if your child:

  • Has an underlying health problem like asthma or other chronic lung disease, a heart condition, diabetes, sickle cell disease, a weakened immune system, a neuromuscular condition such as cerebral palsy, or other medical conditions.

  • Is younger than 5 years old, especially if less than 2 years old.

  • Has symptoms that are not improving.

  • Is in contact with others who are at risk for complications of the flu.

How long does the flu last?

Healthy people, especially children, get over the flu in about a week, without any lingering problems. Talk with your child’s doctor if you suspect a complication like ear pain, pressure in your child’s face and head, or a cough and fever that will not go away.

When flu becomes an emergency

If your child has the flu and develops any of these symptoms, contact your pediatrician or seek immediate medical care.

  • Trouble breathing or unusually rapid breathing

  • Bluish lips or face

  • Ribs looking like they pull in with each breath

  • Chest pain

  • Muscle pain so severe that your child refuses to walk

  • Dehydration (no peeing for 8 hours, dry mouth, and no tears when crying)

  • While awake, your child is not alert or interacting with you

  • Seizures

  • Fever above 104°F

  • In children less than 12 weeks, any fever

  • Fever or cough that seem to improve but then return or worsen

  • Worsening chronic medical conditions, such as asthma

How to prevent the flu

Everyone needs the flu vaccine each year to update their protection and reduce te risk of serious complications. It is the best way to prevent getting the flu. Safe and effective vaccines are made each year.

The flu vaccine is especially important for:

  • Children, including infants born preterm, who are 6 months to 5 years of age

  • Children of any age with chronic medical conditions that increase the risk of complications from the flu

  • All contacts and care providers of children with high risk conditions and children under 5 years old

  • People who are
    pregnant, are considering pregnancy, have recently delivered, or are breastfeeding during the flu season. This is to protect the parent and the baby, which is important since newborns and infants under 6 months old are not able to receive their own vaccination.
  • All health care workers

Flu vaccine

Both the inactivated (killed) vaccine, also called the “flu shot,” given by injection in the muscle, and the live-attenuated
nasal spray vaccine, can be used for influenza vaccination this season. There is no preference for a product or formulation. Any of these vaccines should be given as available in your area.

The vaccine boosts your body’s immune system to protect you from the virus. This takes about two weeks after getting vaccinated. Getting vaccinated before the flu starts spreading around will keep your family healthy so they can continue to enjoy the activities that help them thrive.

Flu vaccine side effects

The flu vaccine has few side effects. The most common side effects from the flu shot are fever and redness, soreness or swelling at the injection site. The most common side effects from the nasal spray vaccine are runny nose, congestion and sore throat.

Children with egg allergies can receive the flu vaccine. Children with a previous allergic reaction after a dose of flu vaccine should be seen by an allergist. The allergist can help parents decide if their child should receive an annual flu vaccination.

More information


  • Ask the Pediatrician:
    Do college students and teens need a flu shot?

  • Which flu vaccine should children get?
  • Ask the Pediatrician:
    Can my child get a COVID-19 vaccine and flu vaccine at the same visit?

  • Flu: A Guide for Parents of Children or Adolescents With Chronic Health Conditions

About Dr.

Muñoz


Flor Muñoz, MD, MSc, FAAP, is associate professor of Pediatrics and Infectious Diseases at Texas Children’s Hospital and Baylor College of Medicine. She is a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics Section on Infectious Diseases.

About Dr. Bryant


Kristina A. Bryant, MD, FAAP, a pediatric infectious diseases specialist at the University of Louisville and Norton Children’s Hospital, is the lead for Red Book Online. She also is the immediate-past president of the Pediatric Infectious Diseases Society.


The information contained on this Web site should not be used as a substitute for the medical care and advice of your pediatrician. There may be variations in treatment that your pediatrician may recommend based on individual facts and circumstances.

Information on the prevention of SARS | Page 2

What you need to know about influenza

Influenza is an acute viral infection that spreads easily from person to person. The influenza virus circulates throughout the world and can affect anyone in any age group. Influenza causes an annual seasonal increase in the incidence, which peaks in winter in temperate areas.

Signs and symptoms

Seasonal flu is characterized by a sudden onset of high fever, cough (usually dry), runny nose, headache, muscle aches, severe malaise (feeling unwell). Most people recover within a week without any medical attention. But the flu can lead to severe illness or death in people at higher risk. The period between infection and disease, known as the incubation period, lasts about two days.

Who is at risk

Annual flu cases can have a severe impact on all age groups, but children under two years of age, adults 65 years of age and older, and people of any age with certain medical conditions, such as as chronic heart, lung, kidney, blood and metabolic diseases (eg diabetes), or with a weakened immune system.

Transmission of infection

Seasonal flu is airborne and can spread rapidly in schools, nursing homes, businesses and cities. The virus can also be transmitted through contaminated hands. To prevent transmission, people should cover their mouth and nose when coughing with a handkerchief and wash their hands regularly.

At the first symptoms of illness, it is very important to react correctly and prevent the development of infection. You must immediately consult a doctor. Influenza treatment is a set of procedures that allow you to destroy the virus and restore the normal functioning of the body with minimal complications. But only a doctor can prescribe it!

In case of influenza infection, the following algorithm should be followed:

  • Bed rest
    The disease cannot be carried on the legs, so during this period it is necessary to observe bed rest and sleep more. But do not forget that illness is not a reason to spend time watching TV or using a computer.
  • Drinking regimen
    During illness, there is increased sweating, which can lead to dehydration. Therefore, to maintain the water-salt balance, it is necessary to consume a sufficient amount of liquid (herbal teas, juices, fruit drinks, clean water).
  • The climate in the apartment
    It is necessary to regularly carry out wet cleaning in the room, as a humid climate makes it easier to endure the disease. Airing the room will remove accumulated germs and viruses. In addition, fresh air promotes recovery and improves well-being.
  • Nutrition
    Despite the fact that in the first days of illness the appetite is significantly reduced, proper nutrition will enrich the body and the weakened immune system with vitamins and nutrients. Food should be light, cereals, soups, boiled meat, fruits and vegetables should prevail in the diet.
  • Vitamins
    Helps keep the body in good shape and quickly eliminate the symptoms of the disease. Vitamin complexes have a good immunomodulatory effect.

In addition to the above methods of treatment, there is also drug therapy. Taking medications should be conscious and recommended by the attending physician. It is contraindicated to take pills on your own. To date, there is no shortage in the choice of drugs that eliminate viral and catarrhal diseases.

Influenza dictates the following conditions:

  • seek medical help or call a doctor;
  • do not take antibiotics or sulfonamides – they do not affect the influenza virus;
  • if possible, isolate the patient in a separate room or limit his contact with healthy family members who are advised to wear gauze bandages;
  • follow the instructions of the attending physician;
  • take medicines to prevent influenza.

In order to minimize the chance of getting the flu and the possibility of complications, as well as for prevention purposes, it is recommended to get vaccinated against influenza before the onset of an influenza epidemic.

Remember! Self-medication is dangerous! When the first symptoms of the flu appear, you should immediately contact qualified medical care.

KGBUZ “VKDTS”
Primorsky Regional Center for Medical Prevention,
doctor Savelyeva L.V.

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