Flu Transmission and Symptoms
The flu usually spreads from person to person in respiratory droplets when people who are infected cough or sneeze. People occasionally may become infected by touching something with influenza virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or eyes.
You may have the flu and not even know it at first. In fact, healthy adults may be able to infect others 1 day before getting symptoms and up to 5 days after getting sick. Therefore, it is possible to give someone the flu before you even know you are sick.
What to do if you have contracted the flu
Most people recover from the flu without much trouble; however, in some people, the flu can cause serious conditions, such as pneumonia, sinus infections, or dehydration. The majority of those who develop the flu do not need to seek medical care, and in fact, going to a doctor’s office during a pandemic increases exposure to the virus, particularly for those who may not actually be ill with the flu.
When to seek medical attention
Those who are ill with flu symptoms should go to a medical office or emergency room if they develop:
- Difficulty breathing
- Chest pain
- Mental confusion
Or, if they have:
- A chronic disease
- A compromised immune system
- Other major health problems
When in doubt, contact a physician for medical advice.
Recognizing the Symptoms
Flu – Sudden onset of one or more of the following symptoms:
- Sore throat
- Aching joints
- Muscle weakness
- Diarrhea (more common
in children), and - Cough, and
- Fever over 100.4 degrees
Cold – Sudden onset of one or more of the following symptoms:
- Watery eyes
- Runny nose
Note: Cold symptoms seldom include fever, headache, and aches or pains.
