You've started feeling better after the flu, but does that mean it's safe to reunite with friends and family, or are you still contagious?
Flu or cold symptoms typically last 7 to 10 days. You're most contagious one day before symptoms begin and up to 5 to 7 days after. In some cases, contagiousness can persist for a full week.
Staying home while sick is vital for your recovery and to protect others from infection. If you must venture out, wait until you've been fever-free for at least 24 hours.
Children remain contagious longer
Children can spread the virus a few days before showing symptoms themselves.
Prioritize good hygiene
Sneeze or cough into a tissue or your elbow, wash hands frequently, and avoid sharing food or drinks.
Sharing space with someone sick
If you're around someone recently recovered, they may still be contagious—or not. The flu's incubation period is typically 2 to 3 days up to a week. If symptoms hit you first, you likely caught it from another source earlier.
