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When you get sick with the flu (influenza), you won’t feel like doing much of anything. It typically starts with a “hit by a truck” feeling and just getting out of bed is difficult. But as the days go on and your symptoms improve, you may wonder just how long you need to stay home. Whether it’s because you are concerned about spreading the illness to others or want to give yourself the best shot at recovering completely and as quickly as possible, it’s important to know how long you should avoid other people and rest.How Long Is the Flu Contagious?

If you get the flu, you are contagious from 1 day before symptoms appear to 5-7 days after symptoms start. Children and people with weakened immune systems may actually be contagious for longer than 7 days.

Because you (and your kids) are more likely to spread the flu when you have a fever, the CDC recommends that you stay home and away from other people for as long as you have a fever and for 24 hours after your fever has gone away – without the use of fever reducing medications.

How Long Will It Take to Recover?

Most people who get the flu are sick for less than two weeks. Symptoms may only last for a few days but if they persist for more than 2 weeks, you should contact your health care provider. There is a chance you may have developed a secondary infection or complication.

How Long Does the Flu Last?

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Staying home until you are fever free and have enough energy to complete your daily tasks is essential for a quick and complete recovery. Do your best to take care of yourself until you feel better and most of your symptoms have resolved before you return to work, school or going out into the community.

Sources:

“How Flu Spreads”. Seasonal Influenza (Flu) .US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Department of Health and Human Services. 20 September 2022.

“Transmission”. Flu (Influenza) 16 Nov 12. National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases. US Department of Health and Human Services. National Institutes of Health. 23 Nov 14.

“Flu Symptoms & Severity”. Seasonal Influenza (Flu) 15 Aug 14. US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Department of Health and Human Services. 3 October 2022.

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