The flu, or influenza, is a highly contagious respiratory infection that spreads quickly in households, schools, or workplaces. If you’ve recently been around someone with the flu, you may wonder how long it will take before you know whether you’ve caught it. Understanding the flu’s incubation period (the time between exposure and the start of symptoms) can help you prepare, monitor your health, and take steps to avoid spreading illness to others.
For same-day flu treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Union City. Our team is available 7 days a week to treat your condition with no appointment necessary. If you’d like to plan your visit in advance, schedule an appointment below!
The Flu Incubation Period
Most people who are exposed to influenza begin showing symptoms within 1 to 4 days, with an average of about 2 days. This means you could start feeling sick very quickly after exposure, or it may take a few days before symptoms appear. The virus spreads easily through droplets from coughing, sneezing, or even talking. Because of this, someone can become contagious and pass the flu to others before they even realize they’re sick.
Early Signs of the Flu
When flu symptoms begin, they often come on suddenly. Unlike the common cold, which can start gradually, influenza usually makes you feel sick all at once. Early symptoms may include:
- Sudden fever and chills
- Headache or body aches
- Fatigue or weakness
- Cough and sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
Some people may also experience nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.
How Long Are You Contagious With the Flu?
You can start spreading the flu about one day before symptoms appear and remain contagious for up to 5 to 7 days after getting sick. Children and people with weakened immune systems may be contagious for even longer. This is why flu outbreaks can spread so quickly- people often don’t realize they’re infected until after they’ve already passed it along to others.
When To Visit Urgent Care
Most healthy adults recover from the flu within a week or so, though fatigue and cough may linger. However, urgent care can provide testing, supportive treatment, and antiviral medications if needed- especially when given within the first 48 hours of symptom onset.
You should seek urgent care if you experience:
- High fever that doesn’t improve with fever reducers
- Severe body aches or fatigue that makes it hard to function
- Chest pain, shortness of breath, or wheezing
- Dizziness, confusion, or dehydration
- Symptoms that suddenly worsen after seeming to improve
Urgent care providers can also determine whether your symptoms may be due to another illness such as strep throat, RSV, or COVID-19, which often circulate during flu season.
Get Walk-In Flu Symptom Relief at AFC Urgent Care Union City
After exposure to the flu, symptoms usually begin within 1 to 4 days, but you may become contagious even before you feel sick. Because influenza can spread so quickly and cause serious illness, especially in children, older adults, and people with underlying conditions, it’s important to monitor your symptoms closely. If you’re unsure whether you have the flu or another illness, come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Union City. Our medical team can provide fast testing and treatment to help you recover quickly. We are experienced in diagnosing and treating a wide range of illnesses for patients of all ages. We accept most health insurance plans and offer low-cost options for self-paying patients. If you have any additional questions about the services we provide, please contact a member of our team directly at (551) 257-1948.
