What Are The Symptoms Of Influenza?
Influenza is an acute respiratory infection caused by a virus. It usually causes mild illness but can be serious or even fatal if not treated promptly.
Symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, muscle aches, headache, fatigue, chills, runny nose, sneezing, and body aches.
Fever
Influenza symptoms typically appear within 2 days after exposure to the virus. However, some people may develop flu-like symptoms up to 4 weeks after being exposed to influenza.
Cough
Influenza is spread through direct contact with infected secretions (such as coughing) or indirect contact with contaminated surfaces. People who are at high risk for complications should seek medical attention immediately if they suspect they have been exposed to influenza.
Sore throat
If you think you might have flu symptoms, call your doctor right away. You can also visit your local emergency room or urgent care center.
Headache
Flu symptoms vary widely among people. They often appear suddenly and last one to four days. Most people recover without treatment within two weeks. However, some people develop complications such as pneumonia or influenza (pneumonia), ear infections, sinusitis, bronchitis, or dehydration. These complications can lead to hospitalization or death.
Muscle aches
If you think you might have flu, see your doctor right away. He or she will ask questions about your symptoms and examine you. You should also keep track of your temperature with a thermometer. A fever above 100 degrees F (38 degrees C) is considered high.