Plano, TX
A 39-year-old female asked:
How long does the flu last?
4 doctor answers • 5 doctors weighed in
A Verified Doctoranswered
29 years experience
Flu: Its variable but generally symptoms resolve within a week. You may take OTC medications for symptom relief along with rest and hydration. If symptoms persist or worsen, consult your physician.
3.7k viewsReviewed >2 years ago
A Verified Doctoranswered
55 years experience
Flu or flu like illn: Influenza and a flu like illness las about a week. However influenza can have complications such a s pneumonia which are serious and can prolong the illness.
3.7k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Dr. Cynthia Archeranswered
Internal Medicine 20 years experience
Influenza: Typically lasts 1-2 weeks. If you have not seen a physician and if you have not been tested for influenza, AND it is less than 48 hours since onset of high fever you can have the diagnosis confirmed and be treated with anti-influenza drugs. They significantly shorten the length of the illness and reduce the time during which you are infectious to others. Vaccines are available for prevention
3.7k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Dr. Laura Yauchanswered
Specializes in Family Medicine
1 to 2 weeks.: Real influenza is vastly different from the common cold. Influenza symptoms can last 1 to 2 weeks,with gradual improvement. Generally adults are infectious from 1 day before symptoms appear to potentially 7 days after the symptoms are noted. Some people- young children and older adults may be infectious for somewhat longer timeframes. See the following link:
www.flu.gov/about_the_flu/seasonal
3.7k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Last updated Apr 9, 2017
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