The duration of the flu can vary from person to person, but in general, the illness lasts for about 7-10 days. However, it’s not uncommon for some symptoms, such as fatigue and coughing, to persist for several weeks after the acute illness has resolved.
The severity of the flu can also impact how long it lasts. People with mild cases of the flu may recover more quickly, while those with more severe cases may take longer to fully recover.
Additionally, certain populations, such as young children, elderly individuals, and those with weakened immune systems, may have a more prolonged course of illness and may be at higher risk for complications.
Treatment measures, such as antiviral medications and rest, may help shorten the duration of the illness and alleviate symptoms. It’s important to stay home and avoid contact with others until the fever has been gone for at least 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medications, to prevent the spread of the virus to others.