If an individual has been exposed to an individual with the flu, one concern is to catch it. The incubation period of the flu is how long after the exposure until the illness starts.
It simply means that if the individual was exposed to the influenza virus and becomes infected, he/she will start to experience the symptoms of the condition between 24 hours and 4 days after exposure.
The signs and symptoms do not occur gradually. In most cases, the start of flu is described as if being “struck by a truck”. An individual feels fine and then feel unable to move an hour later. Remember that the flu is not just a bad case of cold, but an entirely different condition.
When is flu contagious?
One factor that contributes to how the flu spreads is when exactly the individual is contagious. Unlike with other common conditions that are only contagious once the symptoms are present, the flu can become contagious a day before the individual gets sick, thus most are likely to spread the virus before he/she is aware of having it.
Additionally, those who push through their symptoms and continue to work can also spread the virus. This is why the flu affects millions of individuals all over the world every year.
Once the symptoms start, adults are capable of spreading the virus for 5-10 days. Nevertheless, the amount of virus that spreads drastically reduces after 3-5 days. Children can spread the virus for a longer period, usually up to 10 days and oftentimes longer. Individuals who have serious immune system conditions can spread the flu for weeks or months after acquiring the disease.
Prevention
Even though there are several products and remedies that claim to prevent the condition once exposed to the flu, none are proven to be effective.
The ideal way to prevent the condition is to get the yearly flu vaccine. Even though it is still not completely effective in preventing the flu, it provides a better chance of avoiding the condition. If an individual was recently exposed to an infected individual, it is vital to avoid close contact and wash hands frequently.
- Humidifiers can be used during the winter to keep the nasal passages moist. Even though this will not fully guarantee that it can prevent the condition, it will not hurt to use one as long as it is properly cleaned.
- Vitamin C is widely used due to its benefits but there is still no scientific evidence that it can prevent illnesses such as common cold or the flu.
- Antiviral medications can be used if an individual is at risk for complications from the flu.
Remember that prevention is always better than treating this respiratory condition. Make it a point to wash hands regularly, get the yearly flu vaccine and avoid being exposed to those who are down with the flu.