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What to expect
Flu symptoms typically begin suddenly and may include:- Fever and chills
- Dry cough
- Muscle aches and body pains
- Headache
- Fatigue
Symptoms usually peak around day three of illness and begin to improve within a week. However, it is not uncommon for symptoms to last up to 2 weeks. A lingering cough can persist for several weeks after other symptoms resolve.
Some people, particularly children, may experience muscle inflammation (myositis) during recovery, often presenting as calf pain and difficulty walking. Secondary bacterial infections, such as pneumonia or ear infections, can also occur following influenza.
While most people recover without hospitalization, influenza can cause severe complications, including respiratory failure and other organ dysfunction. It is important to discuss warning signs with your or your child’s healthcare provider if influenza is diagnosed.
Managing flu symptoms
Treatment for influenza focuses on supporting the body as it recovers.- Rest and hydration are essential for recovery.
- In some cases, an antiviral medication may be prescribed by your healthcare provider.
- Fever and pain can be treated with acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Motrin). For persistent high fevers, these medications can be alternated (for example, acetaminophen followed by ibuprofen 3 hours later).
- For children older than 12 months, honey is recommended for cough instead of over-the-counter cough medications, as it is equally effective and has fewer side effects.
How to prevent spreading the flu
Influenza is highly contagious and spreads primarily through respiratory droplets from coughing and sneezing. The virus can also survive on hands and surfaces for up to 24 hours.People are usually contagious starting about 24 hours before symptoms begin and are most contagious during the first three days of illness. Viral shedding may continue for up to 10 days or longer, particularly in young children or immunocompromised individuals.
Tips to reduce spread:
- Hand hygiene: Wash hands frequently with soap and water. Hand sanitizer is also effective when soap and water are not available.
- Cover coughs and sneezes: Use a tissue or your elbow to reduce the spread of droplets.
- Wear a mask: If you are symptomatic and need to leave your home, wearing a mask helps protect others.
- Stay home: Staying home from work or school when sick is one of the most effective ways to prevent the spread.
- Get vaccinated: The flu vaccine reduces the risk of infection and can lessen symptom severity if illness occurs. Even if you’ve already had the flu, vaccination after recovery is still recommended, as multiple strains circulate each season.
