The flu, or influenza, is a common but serious viral infection that can cause days of discomfort and missed school or work. One of the most recognizable signs of the flu is fever, often accompanied by chills, headaches, and muscle aches. While a fever is your body’s way of fighting infection, it can be uncomfortable and sometimes concerning if it lingers. In this blog, we’ll explore how long a fever typically lasts with the flu, how to relieve symptoms, and when it’s time to seek medical treatment.
For same-day flu symptom relief, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Highlands. We also provide flu shots for patients of all ages so you can stay protected all season long. Just walk-in or plan your visit in advance below.
What Causes Fever During The Flu?
A fever is not the flu virus itself. It’s the immune system’s response to it. When influenza viruses enter the body, your immune system releases chemicals called pyrogens that signal the brain to raise your body temperature. A high body temperature helps slow the spread of the virus and boosts the efficiency of white blood cells in fighting infection. In this way, a fever is actually a defense mechanism, but it can still feel highly uncomfortable while it lasts.
Typical Duration of a Flu-Related Fever
For most healthy people:
- Fever appears suddenly within the first 24 hours of flu symptom onset
- It usually ranges from 100 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit
- Average duration is anywhere from 3 to 4 days
- In some cases, fever may last 5 to 7 days, particularly in children
Adults often recover a little faster, while children may run higher fevers for longer periods. Even after the fever subsides, it’s common to feel lingering fatigue, cough, or body aches for a week or more.
Tips For Managing Fever at Home
Not everyone’s flu fever follows the same timeline. Duration may be influenced by age, immune system health, underlying health conditions, and treatment timing. Taking antiviral medications within 48 hours of symptom onset can sometimes shorten both fever duration and overall illness. If your fever is mild and manageable, supportive care at home can be enough. Be sure to stay hydrated! Fever can cause fluid loss, so it’s important to drink plenty of water and get frequent rest. Use fever-reducing medications, dress in light clothing, and apply a cool compress on the forehead for relief.
When To Seek Medical Care
While most flu-related fevers resolve on their own, there are times when professional medical care is necessary. You should visit an urgent care center if:
- Fever lasts longer than 4-5 days without improvement
- Fever returns after briefly going away
- Temperature is above 104 degrees Fahrenheit
- Severe symptoms appear
The best way to avoid flu-related fever altogether is prevention. The annual flu vaccine is recommended for everyone six months and older and significantly reduces the risk of severe illness. In addition, regular handwashing, covering coughs and sneezes, and staying home when sick all help prevent the spread of influenza.
Get Walk-In Flu Symptom Relief at AFC Urgent Care Denver Highlands
If your fever isn’t improving, or if you’re unsure whether your symptoms are caused by the flu or another illness, AFC Urgent Care Denver Highlands is here to help. We provide rapid flu testing, treatment options, and symptom relief without the wait of a traditional doctor’s office. Walk in any day of the week for same-day flu care, no appointment necessary. Our team is available 7 days a week to help you recover quickly and safely. Just walk-in! We accept most health insurance plans and offer low-cost options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about flu treatment, or the other services we provide, please contact us directly at (303) 477-6000.
