The flu, or influenza, is a viral infection that can cause symptoms ranging from mild to severe. On average, the flu lasts about 1 to 2 weeks, but the severity and duration of symptoms can vary from person to person.
In most cases, the flu starts suddenly and symptoms can include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Body or muscle aches
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Chills
- Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea (especially in children)
These symptoms can be severe and can make you feel very sick. You may also feel weak and tired for several days to several weeks after the flu has passed, a condition known as post-viral fatigue.
It’s important to keep in mind that the flu can be serious, especially for people with weakened immune systems, such as the elderly, young children, and people with certain medical conditions. If you have symptoms of the flu, it’s important to see a doctor to get a proper diagnosis and appropriate treatment, which may include antiviral medication.