How long does influenza last?

Fever, chills, headache and body aches commonly appear early. Energy may remain low after the fever settles, and a dry cough can linger because the airways are still irritated. Children, older adults and people with chronic disease may have a less predictable course. Pneumonia is a concern when fever or cough is accompanied by worsening breathing or chest symptoms.

Sleep as much as your symptoms require, drink regularly and return to normal activity in stages. Keep distance from vulnerable people while actively unwell, improve airflow indoors and wash hands after coughing or blowing your nose. Use fever or pain medicine according to its directions. If you cannot maintain fluids or are worsening rather than improving, contact a clinician.

Seek urgent care for difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain, confusion, fainting, severe weakness, blue or grey lips, or inability to drink. Prompt review is sensible when symptoms improve and then return strongly, fever continues without a trend toward improvement, or a high-risk person becomes ill.

Ask what recovery pattern fits your health, how long to limit close contact, whether antiviral treatment is appropriate, and when ongoing cough or fatigue should be reassessed.