Symptoms
- Scratchy throat
- Lower back pain
- Runny nose/congestion
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Sneezing
- Night sweats
- Body aches
Causes
If you're an adult, call your doctor if:
- You're not able to keep liquids down for 24 hours
- You've been vomiting for more than two days
- You're vomiting blood
- You're dehydrated — signs of dehydration include excessive thirst, dry mouth, deep yellow urine or little or no urine, and severe weakness, dizziness or lightheadedness
- You notice blood in your bowel movements
Prevention
The most common symptoms of the flu include:
- Body aches
- Chills
- Cough
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Headache
Complications
Potential Causes
- Flu Vaccine. If you had the influenza vaccine (by shot or nasal spray), you may have some mild flu-like symptoms for a short period. ...
- Common Cold. ...
- Strep Throat. ...
- Bronchitis. ...
- Viral Pneumonia. ...
- Mononucleosis. ...
- Coronavirus. ...
- Acute HIV Infection. ...
What are the warning signs of the flu?
What to do when you notice early flu symptoms?
What are the most common flu symptoms?
What illnesses have flu like symptoms?
How does COVID-19 compare to the flu?
Flu and COVID-19 are both contagious respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses. COVID-19 is caused by infection with a coronavirus (called SARS-CoV-2) and seasonal flu (most often just called “flu”) is caused by infection with one of many influenza viruses that spread annually among people.
Can you get COVID-19 and the flu at the same time?
Yes. It is possible have flu, as well as other respiratory illnesses, and COVID-19 at the same time. Health experts are still studying how common this can be. Some of the symptoms of flu and COVID-19 are similar, making it hard to tell the difference between them based on symptoms alone.
Which one is more contagious, COVID-19 or flu?
Differences: If a person has COVID-19, they could be contagious for a longer time than if they have flu.
Are influenza (flu) and COVID-19 caused by the same virus?
Influenza (flu) and COVID-19 are both contagious respiratory illnesses, but they are caused by different viruses. COVID-19 is caused by infection with a coronavirus first identified in 2019, and flu is caused by infection with influenza viruses.
Will the flu shot help fight the coronavirus?
While the flu shot won't protect you from developing COVID-19, it's still a good idea. Most people older than six months can and should get the flu vaccine. Doing so reduces the chances of getting seasonal flu.
How many times can I get COVID-19?
'A long-term pattern' According to some infectious disease researchers, Covid-19 reinfections are likely to become more common as time goes on and different variants continue to circulate—with some people potentially seeing third or fourth reinfections within a year.
When do you start being contagious with COVID-19?
A person with COVID-19 is considered infectious starting 2 days before they develop symptoms, or 2 days before the date of their positive test if they do not have symptoms.
Are you still contagious 10 days after the first day of COVID-19 symptoms?
So, there is potential for people to be infectious beyond their seven-day isolation if they are still symptomatic. After ten days, most people are not infectious. Multiple studies have shown there is very little, if any, transmission after day ten, regardless of the variant.
How long does COVID-19 rebound last?
So far there have been no reports of severe illness in those who have experienced covid rebound, and most people seem to recover and stop testing positive around three days later without needing additional covid-19 treatment.
Are there different types of coronaviruses other than COVID-19?
Coronaviruses didn't just pop up recently. They're a large family of viruses that have been around for a long time. Many of them can cause a variety of illnesses, from a mild cough to severe respiratory illnesses. The new (or “novel”) coronavirus that causes COVID-19 is one of several known to infect humans.
Can COVID-19 cause hair loss?
But excessive hair loss can occur after a major physical or emotional stressor such as fever, illness, pregnancy, surgery or grief, disrupting the normal hair growth cycle and forcing more hairs into the shedding phase. “It's not specific to COVID, but very common with COVID,” Dr. Young explains.
What is the name of the virus that causes COVID-19?
COVID-19 is the disease caused by SARS-CoV-2, the coronavirus that emerged in December 2019.
What are the complications of the flu?
Other possible serious complications triggered by flu can include inflammation of the heart (myocarditis), brain (encephalitis) or muscle (myositis, rhabdomyolysis) tissues, and multi-organ failure (for example, respirator y and kidney failure).
How long does it take to recover from the flu?
Most people who get flu will recover in a few days to less than two weeks, but some people will develop complications (such as pneumonia) as a result of flu, some of which can be life-threatening and result in death.
Can the flu cause death?
Influenza (flu) can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death . Flu is different from a cold. Flu usually comes on suddenly. People who have flu often feel some or all of these symptoms: some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.
What are the symptoms of the flu?
Fatigue. This is common with the flu and happens sometimes with a cold. Sneezing. You’re more likely to have this with a cold than with the flu. Cough and chest discomfort. This is common with both but tends to be severe with the flu. Stuffy nose. This sometimes happens with the flu but is common with a cold.
What are the symptoms of a fever above 100 degrees?
Severe aches in your muscles and joints. Weakness or severe fatigue. Warm, flushed skin and red, watery eyes. Chills. A headache. A dry cough. A sore throat and runny nose. Adults with seasonal flu don’t usually have stomach problems like vomiting or diarrhea, but children sometimes do.
How long does a fever last?
Fever. It can last 3 or 4 days with the flu; it’s rare with a cold.
How to avoid a virus?
Drink plenty of fluids. Avoid contact with other people. Your doctor might give you prescription medications called antiviral drugs if you’re at higher risk of complications, such as if you: Are very sick or have other medical conditions. Are younger than 2 or older than 65.
Can seasonal flu cause diarrhea?
Adults with seasonal fludon’t usually have stomach problemslike vomiting or diarrhea, but children sometimes do.
Is fatigue common with the flu?
Fatigue. This is common with the flu and happens sometimes with a cold.
What to do if you have the flu?
If you have flu symptoms and are at risk of complications, see your doctor right away. Taking antiviral drugs may reduce the length of your illness and help prevent more-serious problems. If you have emergency signs and symptoms of the flu, get medical care right away.
Who is more likely to get the flu?
Living or working conditions. People who live or work in facilities with many other residents, such as nursing homes or military barracks, are more likely to develop the flu. People who are staying in the hospital also are at higher risk.
How long does it take for the flu to go away?
If you're young and healthy, the flu usually isn't serious. Although you may feel miserable while you have it, the flu usually goes away in a week or two with no lasting effects. But children and adults at high risk may develop complications that may include:
What are the effects of cancer on the immune system?
Weakened immune system. Cancer treatments, anti-rejection drugs, long-term use of steroids, organ transplant, blood cancer or HIV / AIDS can weaken the immune system. This can make it easier to catch the flu and may also increase the risk of developing complications.
How long is a person contagious after a virus?
People with the virus are likely contagious from about a day before symptoms appear until about five days after they start. Children and people with weakened immune systems may be contagious for a slightly longer time.
What are the chronic illnesses?
People who have chronic illnesses, such as asthma, heart disease, kidney disease, liver disease and diabetes
What is the name of the virus that attacks the respiratory system?
Influenza is a viral infection that attacks your respiratory system — your nose, throat and lungs. Influenza is commonly called the flu, but it's not the same as stomach "flu" viruses that cause diarrhea and vomiting.
What are the symptoms of the flu?
These include: Fever/chills. Fatigue (tiredness) Muscle or body aches. Headache. Cough. Sore throat.
How long can you be on your back with the flu?
Most cases of the flu are a nuisance — you’ll be on your back for a few days or weeks, and then you can return to your normal routine. But certain flu symptoms, like sudden dizziness, may signal a more serious medical problem, like sepsis or pneumonia. Make sure you know how to differentiate normal symptoms from serious ones and when to seek help, ...
What are the symptoms of a wet diaper?
Children: Breathing problems. Bluish skin tone. Trouble drinking adequate fluids. Difficulty waking up or interacting with others. Increased or unusual irritability. Improvement in flu symptoms to later return with fever and cough. Fever accompanied by a rash.
How long does it take for the flu to subside?
While most people develop a high temperature, not every person with the flu will. Most of the time, these mild flu symptoms subside after one or two weeks, even without treatment. In some cases, those with weakened immune systems or who are at higher risk of developing complications — like pregnant women, young children, seniors, ...
How to prevent the flu?
Getting the flu vaccine and practicing healthy habits — like washing your hands regularly, avoiding sick people and eating a healthy diet — can help prevent the disease and keep germs from spreading. But if you do happen to contract the flu, here’s what you should do:
What are the symptoms of a fever accompanied by a rash?
Adults: Shortness of breath. Abdominal discomfort or chest pain. Sudden dizziness. Confusion. Extreme or persistent vomiting. Flu-like symptoms that improve but then return with fever and worse cough. If you or a loved one have any of these symptoms, go to the emergency department.
What are the signs of a severe illness?
They could be a sign of a severe illness, like pneumonia, an asthma attack, sepsis or inflammation of the heart or brain. If left untreated, these conditions can be life-threatening.
How many people died from the flu in 2010?
Since 2010, the flu has killed from 12,000 to 79,000 people annually in the U.S. and affected about 9.3 million to 49 million annually.
What is the new flu treatment?
The FDA in 2018 approved the first new flu treatment in nearly 20 years: baloxavir marboxil ( Xofluza). The new treatment joins the other three antivirals for flu: oseltamivir (generic or Tamiflu), peramivir (Rapivab), and zanamivir (Relenza).
How to prevent a cough?
Everyday preventive actions are important. Avoid people who are ill, and practice good hygiene such as washing your hands often and covering your cough. If you are sick, stay home.
How long should you stay home after a fever?
Stay home, rest, and avoid contact with others except to get medical care if needed, experts say. Avoid contact with others for at least 24 hours after the fever subsides to avoid spreading the flu.
Is it fun to get the flu?
It's no fun for an adult to deal with flu symptoms. It's even harder for babies and young children. They are more likely to get other related health issues because of the illness. Talk to your doctor about the flu vaccine for young children and babies 6 months and older.
Does Tamiflu cause headaches?
They may also have side effects. Tamiflu may cause nausea and vomiting, and it may make headaches and psychiatric effects more likely. And in a recent study, it didn’t lessen complications.
Is the University of Georgia working on a flu shot?
Ted Ross, PhD, director of the university’s Center for Vaccines and Immunology, said they may be able to start testing a vaccine on people sometime next year. Ross said the goal is to help people most vulnerable to flu. Other researchers have been working on a universal flu shot, as well.
What are the symptoms of the flu?
Common signs of an influenza infection include: coughing. runny or stuffy nose. sneezing. sore throat. fever. headache.
What is the type of influenza?
What is type A influenza? Influenza — also known as the flu — is a contagious viral infection that attacks your respiratory system. Influenza viruses that infect humans can be classified into three main groups: A, B, and C. Type A influenza infection can be serious and cause widespread outbreaks and disease. Common symptoms of type A infection can ...
How does influenza A clear?
In some cases, influenza A symptoms can clear on their own with ample rest and fluid intake. In other cases, your doctor may prescribe antiviral medication to fight the infection.
How long does it take for flu symptoms to go away?
chills. body aches. Sometimes, influenza A symptoms may resolve on their own. However, if symptoms persist for more than a week without improvement, schedule a visit with your doctor.
What are the side effects of oseltamivir?
Though effective, these medications can cause side effects such as nausea and vomiting.
How long does it take for a doctor to test for influenza?
In this procedure, your doctor swabs your nose or throat. The test will detect influenza viral RNA within 30 minutes or less.
How to get rid of the flu?
Over-the-counter medication therapy can also ease flu symptoms. Be sure to stay hydrated to loosen mucus in your chest and strengthen your immune system.
What is the flu?
The flu is a respiratory infection that is caused by the influenza virus. It mainly affects your nose, throat, and lungs, and causes similar symptoms to the common cold. But unlike a cold, people tend to experience these symptoms more severely and for a longer period of time. Here, we will talk about what to expect if you get sick and how long it will take to get back to feeling like yourself after the flu.
How long does it take for the flu to go away?
The flu is a respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. Flu symptoms usually resolve on their own in about a week, but cough and fatigue can linger well after the infection is gone. You can decrease your risk of getting the flu by getting vaccinated every year and taking standard preventive measures.
How long after a virus is a person contagious?
After that, you are most likely to spread the virus 3 to 4 days after symptoms begin, but you can still be contagious up to 7 days after your symptoms start.
How long does it take for a virus to multiply?
During incubation, the virus is busy multiplying inside the body, a process that usually takes 1 to 4 days. You may be contagious towards the end of this stage before you even develop symptoms.
When to consider antiviral medication?
If you are in a high-risk group, it is a good idea to see your healthcare provider to consider antiviral medications when your symptoms begin.
Is it normal to have yellow mucus when you cough?
In this recovery phase, you may also notice yellow or green mucus when you cough or blow their noses. This is completely normal and is to be expected. As long as there is no return of fever or progressively worsening symptoms, this congestion does not mean that there’s another infection or that you need antibiotics.
What are the risks of the flu?
Some people are at increased risk for complications from influenza. These people include: 1 the very young 2 people 65 or older 3 people with chronic illnesses, such as asthma, heart disease, HIV, or diabetes 4 pregnant women 5 people with a body mass index (BMI) of 40 or higher
How to predict how long the flu will last?
To better predict how long the flu will last, take steps to reduce your risk of contracting the virus and experiencing severe symptoms. Consider the following steps, as suggested in the Harvard Special Report A Guide to Women's Health: Fifty and Forward. Get an annual flu vaccine. Wash your hands with soap and water before eating ...
How long does it take for a flu shot to show symptoms?
Symptoms usually appear from one to four days after exposure to the virus, and they last five to seven days. For people who've had a flu shot, the symptoms may last a shorter amount of time, or be less severe. For other people, the symptoms may last longer. Even when symptoms resolve, you may continue to feel fatigued.
What to do if you have the flu?
If you get the flu, you should get rest and drink plenty of fluids. Take pain relievers to lower your fever and relieve the aches, such as:
Do smokers get the flu?
Smokers are more likely to get the flu than nonsmokers. These steps won't guarantee that you'll escape the flu this year, but they may help prevent it. And they may help reduce the amount of time the flu lasts if you do become infected with the virus. – By Heidi Godman. Executive Editor, Harvard Health Letter.
What are the symptoms of gastroenteritis?
Gastroenteritis, on the other hand, attacks your intestines, causing signs and symptoms, such as: Watery, usually nonbloody diarrhea — bloody diarrhea usually means you have a different, more severe infection. Abdominal cramps and pain. Nausea, vomiting or both. Occasional muscle aches or headache.
How long does it take for gastroenteritis to show up?
Depending on the cause, viral gastroenteritis symptoms may appear within one to three days after you're infected and can range from mild to severe. Symptoms usually last just a day or two, but occasionally they may persist as long as 10 days.
How do you get viral gastroenteritis?
The most common way to develop viral gastroenteritis — often called stomach flu —is through contact with an infected person or by ingesting contaminated food or water. If you're otherwise healthy, you'll likely recover without complications. But for infants, older adults and people with compromised immune systems, ...
What is the main complication of viral gastroenteritis?
The main complication of viral gastroenteritis is dehydration — a severe loss of water and essential salts and minerals. If you're healthy and drink enough to replace fluids you lose from vomiting and diarrhea, dehydration shouldn't be a problem.
What is the name of the infection that causes diarrhea, vomiting, and diarrhea?
Viral gastroenteritis is an intestinal infection marked by watery diarrhea, abdominal cramps, nausea or vomiting, and sometimes fever. The most common way to develop viral gastroenteritis — often called stomach flu —is through contact with an infected person or by ingesting contaminated food or water. If you're otherwise healthy, you'll likely ...
When is the most active season for gastrointestinal disease?
If you live in the Northern Hemisphere, for instance, you're more likely to have rotavirus or norovirus infections between October and April.
Can you confuse viral diarrhea with diarrhea caused by bacteria?
Because the symptoms are similar, it's easy to confuse viral diarrhea with diarrhea caused by bacteria, such as Clostridium difficile, salmonella and E. coli, or parasites, such as giardia.
Overview
Symptoms
Causes
Risk Factors
Complications
Prevention
- At first, the flu may seem like a common cold with a runny nose, sneezing and sore throat. But colds usually develop slowly, whereas the flu tends to come on suddenly. And although a cold can be a bother, you usually feel much worse with the flu. Common signs and symptoms of the flu include: 1. Fever 2. Aching muscles 3. Chills and sweats 4. Headac...