America is in the middle flu seasonThe CDC says many states are reporting “moderate to very high activity” of influenza-like illness.
Influenza A (H3N2), or Subclade Kwhich accounts for the majority of circulating viruses, doctors emphasize the importance of getting an up-to-date flu shot, staying home when sick, and washing your hands frequently, among other precautions.
If you’ve been exposed to or had the flu, here’s what you need to know about the transmission period of the virus.
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“You’re typically contagious with the flu for five to seven days after you start showing symptoms,” Dr. Samantha Picking, senior director of immunizations at Massachusetts-based Walgreens, told FOX News Digital.
“However, some groups remain infectious for long periods of time. infant Also, people with weakened immune systems can spread the virus for more than seven days, and even for more than two weeks. ”
Picking said it’s a myth that people aren’t contagious until they experience symptoms.
“The flu is most contagious during the first three to four days after symptoms appear,” she says. “However, it is possible that you start spreading the virus the day before you start feeling sick. remains contagious Up to a week or more. ”
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The incubation period (the time between being infected with the virus and the onset of symptoms) is usually two days, but can range from one to four days, the pharmacist added. Even people with mild symptoms can spread the flu.
For those who are just starting out, I don’t feel well Picking recommends limiting your contact with others to avoid spreading the virus.
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“To stay safe and prevent the spread of the virus, please stay home and do not use your device until you have had a fever for at least 24 hours.” antipyretic agent“For most healthy adults, this usually corresponds to five to seven days after symptoms begin,” Picking advised.
She added that people can still take extra precautions, such as wearing masks, for several days after returning to normal activities.
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“However, if you are unsure whether you are well enough to leave your home, please use your best judgment and consult a medical professional,” she added. “If your other symptoms have not improved, or if you are still feeling unwell in general, it is wise to stay home and practice.” good hand hygiene. ”
According to pharmacists, young children and people with weakened immune systems can spread the virus to others for a long time, sometimes up to 14 days.
Picking noted that the cough can continue for weeks even after other symptoms have subsided. “While a persistent cough does not necessarily indicate that you are still contagious, it is considerate to wear a mask and practice cough etiquette when around others,” she advised.
some antiviral drugsstarting early can shorten the time you have the flu.
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“These drugs work best when started within two days of the onset of symptoms,” Picking said. Anyone interested in antiviral medications should talk to their health care provider or pharmacist for personalized guidance.
Symptoms of the flu include fever, chills, headache, fatigue, cough, sore throat, and runny nose.
Subclade K was detected as the culprit Increase in number of infected people worldwidecausing more severe symptoms and a higher risk of spread.
Dr. Neil Mania, a professor of public health at Northeastern University in Boston, previously told Fox News Digital: “It’s becoming clear that this is a fairly severe variant of influenza.” “Certainly in other parts of the world where this variant is circulating, it’s causing severe illness and we’ve already seen the start of a flu epidemic.”
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”vaccine “Protection against severe disease caused by subclade K variants that appear to be widespread is still provided,” he added.
Angelica Stabile contributed reporting.
