Recovery from the flu (influenza) typically takes one to two weeks, although the symptoms may last longer. The severity of the flu can vary from person to person, so the length of time it takes to recover can also vary.
Typically, the early stages of the flu involve the sudden onset of a fever, chills, tiredness, a dry cough, sore throat, headache, and muscle aches. In some cases, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea may also occur. These symptoms usually last for about three to five days before starting to improve.
As the body starts to fight off the virus, the fever usually begins to break, and other symptoms start to improve. However, it's important to note that even after the fever breaks, the fatigue, muscle aches, and other symptoms may take a few days to resolve completely. Coughing may linger for up to two weeks, and it's important to take steps to prevent spreading the flu to others.
It's important to note that some people may take longer to recover from the flu. People with weakened immune systems, such as those with chronic illnesses, may take up to several weeks to get back to feeling normal.
In addition to rest and hydration, it's important to take over-the-counter medications to reduce symptoms and to consult your doctor if symptoms persist for more than two weeks, as this could indicate a secondary infection.