How quickly do flu symptoms appear. What are the most common signs of influenza. When is a person with the flu most contagious. How long does the flu typically last. What are effective ways to prevent getting the flu.

The Nature and Spread of Influenza

Influenza, commonly known as the flu, is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can lead to mild to severe illness and, in some cases, can be life-threatening. The flu spreads primarily through respiratory droplets when infected individuals cough, sneeze, or talk.

Flu season in the United States typically begins in autumn and continues through spring, with peak activity often occurring between December and February. However, the exact timing and duration can vary from year to year.

How Contagious is the Flu?

The flu is highly transmissible. Infected individuals can spread the virus from about one day before symptoms appear up to 5-7 days after becoming sick. Some people, especially young children and those with weakened immune systems, might be contagious for even longer periods.

• Contagious period: 1 day before symptoms to 5-7 days after onset
• Peak contagiousness: First 3-4 days of illness
• Transmission methods: Respiratory droplets, close contact, contaminated surfaces

Recognizing Flu Symptoms and Their Onset

Unlike the common cold, which often develops gradually, flu symptoms tend to come on suddenly. The incubation period for influenza—the time between exposure to the virus and the onset of symptoms—typically ranges from 1 to 4 days.

Common Flu Symptoms

The most frequent symptoms of influenza include:

• Fever or feeling feverish/chills
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle or body aches
• Headache
• Fatigue

Some individuals, particularly children, may also experience vomiting and diarrhea. It’s important to note that not everyone with the flu will have all these symptoms, and the severity can vary from person to person.

How Quickly Do Flu Symptoms Appear?

Flu symptoms typically manifest abruptly, often within 24 hours of infection. This rapid onset is one of the key differentiators between influenza and other respiratory illnesses. Many people report feeling fine one day and then waking up the next day with full-blown flu symptoms.

Stages of Influenza Infection

Understanding the stages of flu can help individuals better manage their illness and take appropriate precautions to prevent spreading the virus to others.

1. Incubation Period: 1-4 days after exposure, no symptoms present
2. Onset of Symptoms: Sudden appearance of fever, body aches, and other symptoms
3. Peak of Illness: Usually occurs within the first 2-3 days of symptom onset
4. Recovery: Symptoms begin to subside, usually after 5-7 days for most people
5. Return to Normal: Most individuals recover fully within 1-2 weeks

High-Risk Groups and Complications

While anyone can contract influenza, certain groups are at higher risk for severe complications:

• Young children under 5 years old, especially those under 2
• Adults 65 years and older
• Pregnant women and those up to two weeks postpartum
• People with chronic medical conditions (e.g., asthma, heart disease, diabetes)
• Individuals with weakened immune systems

Potential complications of influenza include:

• Pneumonia
• Myocarditis (inflammation of the heart muscle)
• Encephalitis (inflammation of the brain)
• Multi-organ failure
• Exacerbation of chronic medical conditions

Pregnancy and Flu Risks

Pregnant women are particularly vulnerable to severe flu complications. Influenza during pregnancy increases the risk of premature labor and delivery. It’s crucial for expectant mothers to get vaccinated and seek prompt medical attention if they suspect they have the flu.

Diagnosis and Treatment Options

Diagnosing the flu typically involves a clinical assessment of symptoms and, in some cases, laboratory tests. Rapid influenza diagnostic tests can provide results within 10-15 minutes, although they may not be as accurate as other, more time-consuming tests.

Antiviral Medications

Antiviral drugs can be prescribed to treat influenza. These medications work best when started within 48 hours of symptom onset. They can help reduce the severity and duration of symptoms, as well as prevent serious complications.

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

Supportive Care

Most flu treatment focuses on managing symptoms and supporting the body’s natural healing process:

• Rest and adequate sleep
• Increased fluid intake to prevent dehydration
• Over-the-counter pain relievers for fever and body aches
• Humidifiers to ease congestion and coughing

Prevention Strategies and Vaccination

The most effective way to prevent influenza is through annual vaccination. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone 6 months of age and older should get a flu vaccine every year, with rare exceptions.

Why Annual Vaccination is Necessary

Flu viruses evolve rapidly, and vaccine formulations are updated annually to match the circulating strains. Additionally, the body’s immune response to the vaccine decreases over time, necessitating yearly shots for optimal protection.

Other Prevention Methods

In addition to vaccination, several other strategies can help reduce the risk of contracting or spreading the flu:

• Frequent handwashing with soap and water
• Using alcohol-based hand sanitizers when soap is unavailable
• Avoiding close contact with sick individuals
• Covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
• Staying home when you’re sick to prevent spreading the virus
• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle to support your immune system

Global Impact and Surveillance

Influenza is a global health concern, with seasonal epidemics occurring worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) and national health agencies conduct year-round surveillance to monitor flu activity, identify emerging strains, and guide vaccine development.

Pandemic Potential

Occasionally, a new influenza virus emerges that can cause a global pandemic. Historical examples include the 1918 Spanish flu and the 2009 H1N1 swine flu. Ongoing surveillance and research are crucial for early detection and response to potential pandemic threats.

Travel Considerations

Flu seasons vary globally, with the Southern Hemisphere experiencing peak activity from April to September. Travelers should be aware of flu risks and consider vaccination before international trips, especially if traveling in large groups or to areas with ongoing outbreaks.

Myths and Misconceptions About the Flu

Despite widespread education efforts, several myths about influenza persist. Addressing these misconceptions is crucial for public health and individual decision-making.

Common Flu Myths Debunked

• Myth: The flu vaccine can give you the flu.
  Fact: The flu shot contains inactivated viruses that cannot cause infection.
• Myth: Healthy people don’t need to get vaccinated.
  Fact: Even healthy individuals can contract and spread the flu, potentially to high-risk groups.
• Myth: Antibiotics can treat the flu.
  Fact: Antibiotics are ineffective against viruses, including influenza.
• Myth: You can’t spread the flu if you’re feeling well.
  Fact: People can be contagious before symptoms appear.

Understanding these facts can help individuals make informed decisions about flu prevention and treatment, contributing to better personal and public health outcomes.

Influenza (Flu) Fact Sheet

What is the flu?

The “flu” or influenza is a serious disease. At times it can lead to death. It is very contagious and spreads in the U.S. each year, starting in the fall and continuing through spring.

The flu is caused by a virus and spread mainly by coughing, sneezing or close contact. Young children and older adults are at highest risk of getting the flu but anyone can get it.

What are the symptoms?

Unlike a cold, flu symptoms start suddenly. They appear about 1-4 days after a person is exposed to the flu. Symptoms may include:

• Fever or feeling feverish/chills.
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle or body aches
• Headache
• Tiredness
• Some people may have vomiting or diarrhea; this is more common in children.

How long is a person with the flu contagious?

You can pass the flu to others from 1 day before you have symptoms up to 5-7 days after you get sick. Some people might be able to infect others even longer.

Is there treatment?

The flu can be treated with antiviral drugs if started soon after you get sick. They will help reduce how sick you get and how long you are ill. Over the counter drugs like acetaminophen or ibuprofen may be taken to increase comfort. People with the flu need rest and fluids.

If my child or another family member has been exposed, what should I do?

Call your doctor or clinic for advice. Some people with a sick family member may be given an antiviral medicine to help prevent the flu.

Who’s at higher risk for the flu?

Young children, older adults and people with weaker immune symptoms sometimes become sicker from the flu. This is also true if you have a condition such as heart and lung disease, asthma or diabetes. Having the flu while you’re pregnant increases the risk of premature labor and delivery.

What are the complications of the flu?

Some complications include pneumonia, ear infections and dehydration. The flu can be serious and may require care in a hospital. Some people who get the flu could die.

What is the best way to prevent flu?

The single best way to prevent the flu is to get the flu shot. Everyone 6 months of age and older should get the flu vaccine every year. The flu shot cannot cause the flu.

• The flu shot is given with a needle, usually in the arm. It can be given to people 6 months of age and older.

Why do I need to get the flu vaccine every year?

New flu vaccines are produced every year to keep up with flu viruses that change rapidly over time. Antibodies to flu vaccine decline over time too – another reason to get a flu vaccine annually.

When should I get the flu vaccine?

Every year, as soon as it is available. It takes about two weeks to be fully effective, so it is important to get it before flu season begins, if possible. But, you can still get vaccinated through the spring and beyond. Even though flu season usually peaks in February, it can continue at least through May. Flu vaccine is offered at health care providers’ offices, clinics and pharmacies.

What should I or my family members do if we travel out of the country?

Your risk for being exposed to the flu depends on what time of year you travel and where you go. In the Northern Hemisphere, flu season can beginas early as October and last until May. In the Southern Hemisphere flu season occurs from April through September. In tropical climates, flu can occur all year. Traveling with groups of international travelers, such as on a cruise ship, can increase your risk of exposure.

Travel and the Flu:

• www.cdc.gov/flu/travelers/travelersfacts.htm

How can I learn about flu outbreaks?

The New York State Department of Health and the CDC track influenza throughout the flu season. For up-to-date information:

• www.health.ny.gov/diseases/communicable/influenza/surveillance/
• www.cdc.gov/flu/weekly/usmap.htm

Learn more about the flu:

• www. cdc.gov/flu/

For more information about vaccine-preventable diseases:

• www.health.ny.gov/prevention/immunization/

What Are the Stages of the Flu?

Home » What Are the Stages of the Flu?

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If you understand the flu cycle, you’ll know when you’re contagious or when others are contagious, and how to predict and prepare for the symptoms. Read on to learn more about the cycle and stages of the flu.

Table of Contents:

What are the first stages of the flu?
How do I know whether I have the flu?
When will I come out of the flu?

Everyone is affected by the flu differently. They might have different symptoms, different severities of symptoms, and longer periods of sickness. However, the flu does have a typical cycle, so you can expect to deal with it similarly to how everyone else does.

What are the first stages of the flu?

When you get the flu, you’re actually already contagious even before you start experiencing any symptoms. You’ll feel fine for even 48 hours, but then the flu symptoms start coming. Over the course of several hours, you’ll start feeling worse and worse with a headache, a sudden fever, body aches, chills, and fatigue. These symptoms are the most common initial ones.

During this initial stage, you may realize you’re sick, and you should speak with a doctor about it. Flu medication is most effective during this initial stage. Also, it’s important to bear in mind that flu- and cold-like symptoms could actually be symptoms of another condition like a more serious viral infection, and the flu and viral infections are very contagious. With this in mind, it’s best to stay home and seek telecare from a clinic like ours.

How do I know whether I have the flu?

During the middle stages of the flu, you’ll be experiencing some significant symptoms. Still, it’s easy to confuse these symptoms with those of another condition, so it’s important to get professional diagnosis. An immediate care doctor can provide a rapid flu test or another test if you need it, or prescribe an antiviral medication.

In the middle stages of the flu, your symptoms might make it difficult for you to get out of bed. Symptoms like congestion, coughing, and even gastrointestinal symptoms are common. Fever is too. You’re still contagious during this stage, so you should wash your hands regularly and self-isolate until at least 24 hours after your fever goes away. Plenty of rest and fluids will help you feel and get better.

When will I come out of the flu?

After about 4 days, you’ll probably start to feel better. Your fever should be lower and your body aches should have lessened. Your cough may be worse, but this can be a sign that you’re getting better. It’s still important to get rest and plenty of fluid intake, and to self-isolate. Remember, you’re still contagious until you’ve been free of a fever for 24 hours (without taking any fever-reducing medicine). At around day 6 or 7, you should be fever-free. Just wait 24 hours more before you stop self-isolating.

You may still be tired during this stage and still not at 100%. Take it easy to let your body get better. If you’re not feeling mostly better after the week of being symptomatic, then you’ll need to speak with a doctor again, but you should be feeling much better at this time and close to feeling your best again!

Our doctors here at Immediate Care of Oklahoma can help you if you believe you have the flu or any flu symptoms. Please call us if you have any symptoms, though. Over the phone or internet, we’ll be able to provide advice and even diagnosis and recommendations for treatment. Our clinic is available to you 7 days a week, 12 hours a day. Please see our Telecare page for more information or our Appointments page to book with us. We look forward to hearing from you soon and helping you get better quickly!

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Hepatitis

Regarding the diagnosis and treatment of this type of disease

in children can be contacted by phone (8652) 24-13-61 (children’s department, head) – children’s hepatological center.

in adults – by phone (8652) 24-44-75 (adult department, head Olga Anatolyevna Kostenko) – adult hepatology center with outpatient reception.

What is hepatitis?

Viral hepatitis is a common and dangerous infectious disease. They can manifest themselves in different ways, but among the main symptoms are jaundice and pain in the right hypochondrium. To diagnose hepatitis, you need to do a blood test, urine test, and in difficult cases, a liver biopsy.

Of all forms of viral hepatitis, hepatitis A is the most common. From the moment of infection to the appearance of the first signs of the disease, it takes from 7 to 50 days. Most often, the onset of the disease is accompanied by a rise in temperature and may resemble the flu. Most cases end spontaneously and do not require active treatment. In severe cases, droppers are prescribed to eliminate the toxic effect of the virus on the liver.

The hepatitis B virus is transmitted sexually, by injection with non-sterile syringes in drug addicts, from mother to fetus. In typical cases, the disease begins with fever, weakness, joint pain, nausea and vomiting. Sometimes there are rashes. There is an increase in the liver and spleen. There may also be darkening of the urine and discoloration of the stool.

Hepatitis C is the most severe form of viral hepatitis, also called post-transfusion hepatitis. This means that they fell ill after a blood transfusion. This is due to the fact that testing of donated blood for the hepatitis C virus began only a few years ago. Quite often, infection occurs through syringes in drug addicts. Sexual transmission is also possible from mother to fetus. The greatest danger is the chronic form of this disease, which often turns into cirrhosis and liver cancer. Chronic course develops in approximately 70-80% of patients. The combination of hepatitis C with other forms of viral hepatitis sharply aggravates the disease and threatens with a fatal outcome.

Prevention of hepatitis.

To protect yourself from infection with hepatitis, you must follow simple rules.

Do not drink unboiled water, always wash fruits and vegetables, do not neglect the heat treatment of food. In this way, you can prevent infection with hepatitis A, the transmission of which is associated with contamination of food with the faeces of a sick person. The great rule “Wash your hands before eating” is a guarantee of health in this case too.

In general, contact with other people’s body fluids should be avoided. For protection against hepatitis B and C – primarily with blood. In microscopic quantities, blood can remain on razors, toothbrushes, nail scissors. Do not share these items with other people.

In medical institutions, measures are taken to prevent infection with hepatitis. However, if you had an endoscopy or dental treatment ten to fifteen years ago, when the fight against hepatitis was not yet carefully organized, you need to get checked. There is still a small risk of infection today.

Never share syringes and needles for taking drugs. Never use non-sterile piercings and tattoos. Remember – the hepatitis virus is very tenacious and, in contrast to the AIDS virus, it persists in the external environment for a long time (sometimes up to several weeks).