Is the flu contagious?

Written by Yuan Qing
Pulmonology
Updated on June 12, 2025
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Influenza refers to a disease characterized primarily by coughing, sputum production, sore throat, and fever, after the respiratory tract has been infected by the influenza virus. Additionally, influenza may present symptoms such as nausea, abdominal pain, and diarrhea. The infectiousness of influenza is mainly transmitted through the inhalation of droplets from one person to another within a population. In China, influenza is a legally mandated Class B infectious disease, and is indeed contagious. Therefore, if you notice individuals around you with fever, cough, or sputum production who are suspected of having influenza, isolation should be implemented. Moreover, it is advisable to avoid crowded places to reduce the possibility of being infected by influenza. Furthermore, vaccination during the flu season is also an effective way to protect against influenza.

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Internal Medicine
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How long does the flu vaccine last?

Compared to the common cold, influenza causes more severe symptoms and is more contagious. Antibiotics are ineffective against it, but influenza can be prevented, and vaccination is the most effective way. Currently, the immunity from the influenza vaccine generally lasts about one year. It starts to work about a month after injection, but after six months, the concentration of antibodies in the body gradually declines. Additionally, the virus mutates every year, so an annual vaccination is necessary to provide effective protection, reduce symptoms, and prevent influenza.

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How long does it take to recover from the flu?

Influenza, also known as the flu, is usually a respiratory disease caused by influenza virus infections in humans. It is characterized by being self-limiting, which means that patients can improve without treatment. The flu is no exception; it tends to be self-limiting but only in people with normal immune function. Typically, patients can recover on their own in about 7-10 days. However, for some specific populations like the elderly, children, pregnant women, or those with underlying diseases, the duration of the flu may be extended and may lead to severe complications.

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Written by Wang Chun Mei
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Can people with hyperlipidemia drink alcohol?

Influenza patients should not drink alcohol because they are already experiencing reduced immune function due to the infection with the influenza virus, which is a highly contagious respiratory disease. The influenza virus typically shows a seasonal pattern, with higher incidences in the winter and spring seasons, and it can be transmitted through the respiratory tract to people with weakened immune systems. Therefore, once influenza is definitively diagnosed, it is crucial to promptly provide antiviral treatments, clear heat and detoxify, as well as reduce fever and handle other symptoms, to effectively control the discomfort caused by the virus. Influenza patients should avoid spicy and irritating foods in their diet, and they should drink plenty of water and consume fresh vegetables and fruits. It is absolutely essential to avoid alcohol to prevent exacerbating the symptoms of the influenza virus.

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Written by Li Fang Xiao
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How to get a flu vaccine?

Influenza vaccines are mainly produced to prevent epidemic influenza and are currently available in three main types: Type A, B, and C. The target population for influenza vaccine administration primarily includes the elderly, preschool children, and patients with chronic underlying diseases, who are more suitable for vaccination. For children under three years old, the influenza vaccine should be administered twice, as it is administered via muscle injection and cannot be used intravenously. For this age group, the two doses should be spaced at least four weeks apart. For children over three years old and adults, an annual vaccination is sufficient. The optimal time for influenza vaccination is usually in September and October, as influenza tends to outbreak in winter and spring, so vaccinating during these months can greatly prevent influenza.

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Written by Yuan Qing
Pulmonology
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Why is there a low fever after the flu?

Influenza, also known as the flu, is primarily due to an infection of the flu virus in our upper respiratory tract, leading to symptoms such as sore throat, cough, and fever. After the influenza virus enters the human body, it replicates repeatedly. Post replication, the body's immune cells attempt to eliminate it. However, it is usually challenging for immune cells to completely clear the virus in one go. Therefore, many patients experience a prolonged period of low-grade fever or persistent abnormal body temperature after the flu. Generally, the course of the flu is about 10-14 days, and recovery is typically achievable, often with a complete resolution of fever. Thus, there is no need for excessive worry. Treatment can be effectively enhanced by using a combination of antiviral Chinese and Western medicines.