When is influenza type a contagious

Blutinger says. Hindsight really is everything, Dr. Boling says: Once you develop symptoms of the flu, you have at least some clue of when your incubation period was. The only way to really have a tip-off of when your incubation period is when you're actually living through it is if you know you've been exposed to someone with the flu, Dr. But, unfortunately, most people are infected without knowing it.

The bright side of all of this, if there even is such a thing, is that the proven methods to prevent the spread of COVID also work to lower your risk of both contracting and passing on the flu. So, if you happen to catch the flu, wearing a mask while you're out and about and practicing social distancing should go a long way toward making sure your incubation period doesn't harm anyone else.

To get our top stories delivered to your inbox, sign up for the Healthy Living newsletter. By Korin Miller November 30, Most experts think that flu viruses spread mainly by droplets made when people with flu cough, sneeze or talk. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby or possibly be inhaled into the lungs.

Less often, a person might get flu by touching a surface or object that has flu virus on it and then touching their own mouth, nose, or possibly their eyes. People with flu are most contagious in the first three to four days after their illness begins.

Most healthy adults may be able to infect others beginning 1 day before symptoms develop and up to 5 to 7 days after becoming sick.

Children and some people with weakened immune systems may pass the virus for longer than 7 days. Symptoms can begin about 2 days but can range from 1 to 4 days after the virus enters the body. That means that you may be able to pass on the flu to someone else before you know you are sick, as well as while you are sick.

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Learn About Flu. Section Menu. Key Facts Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory infection. It's caused by one of three different viruses, although most serious illness is caused by flu strains A and B. If you have asthma or other lung diseases, you are at higher risk of developing complications from the flu. Getting vaccinated every year is the best way to protect yourself from the flu.

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