How long onset of flu

If you get sick with influenza, home treatment can help ease symptoms. Follow the self-care advice below:. Consult your health care provider early if you develop flu-like symptoms and you have a condition that puts you at higher risk of complications. You should also call your health care provider if your symptoms get worse, such as shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, chest pain or signs of dehydration such as dizziness when standing or low urine output.

Skip to main content. Influenza Flu Series. Last Updated:. August Download PDF:. What is influenza? When does the flu become contagious? What are the early symptoms of the flu? How does the flu spread? The bottom line. Read this next. Medically reviewed by Shilpa Amin, M. Medically reviewed by Alan Carter, Pharm. Medically reviewed by Cameron White, M. Fun Facts About the Immune System. Medically reviewed by University of Illinois.

The Secrets to Never Getting Sick. It affects people of all ages. The flu is spread by contact with fluids from coughs and sneezes that contain the flu virus. Even healthy people can sometimes die from the flu. For vulnerable Victorians, like young children, the elderly, pregnant women and people with a weakened immune system or chronic medical condition, the flu can have serious and devastating outcomes.

Flu, and other kinds of viruses, can only be confirmed by a doctor after a nose or throat swab has returned positive results. It is also required where complications have developed. Some people may also experience headache, muscle soreness, stuffy nose, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea.

Symptoms of the flu hit very quickly and may last several weeks. A bout of the flu typically follows this pattern:. 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. Getting a flu shot every year is recommended for all people from 6 months. Many people in the above groups are eligible for free flu vaccination each year in autumn under the National Immunisation Program.

Anyone in these at-risk groups with flu-like symptoms should see their doctor as soon as possible. The original recommended timing between receipt of the 2 vaccines was a preferred minimum interval of 2 weeks 14 days. Based on the latest medical advice the preferred minimum interval between vaccinations for COVID and the flu is now 7 days. Their immune system will fight the infection and symptoms will usually clear up on their own.

If you think you have the flu, try to rest, maintain a good fluid intake, and manage your symptoms. This will help you recover and prevent dehydration. See your doctor if you have any concerns. Facebook Twitter LinkedIn Syndicate. How Flu Spreads. Minus Related Pages. Person to Person People with flu can spread it to others up to about 6 feet away.

When Flu Spreads People with flu are most contagious in the first three to four days after their illness begins. Period of Contagiousness You may be able to pass on flu to someone else before you know you are sick, as well as while you are sick. People with flu are most contagious in the first days after their illness begins. Some otherwise healthy adults may be able to infect others beginning 1 day before symptoms develop and up to 5 to 7 days after becoming sick.