Can a virus last 4 weeks

With other variants of the coronavirus, loss of taste has been known to persist for weeks or even months. The best way to protect yourself from the omicron variant, especially severe illness, is to stay up to date with vaccinations, says the CDC.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WWLP. Alix Martichoux, Nexstar Media Wire 20 hrs ago.

New U. Biden administration to hire 1, workers for 'Clean Energy Corps'. It is not unusual for the flu to last longer than a week, so slow healing is not necessarily a bad sign. However, if the symptoms continue to get worse after a week, it may be best to see a doctor.

The best and most effective treatment for the flu is an antiviral flu drug. Taking this drug within 2 days of getting sick may shorten the duration of the flu and help a person avoid complications. Before taking any anti-flu medication, a person can weigh up the risks and benefits with a doctor. It is important to tell the doctor about any previous health problems or drug reactions because some people experience side effects when they take anti-flu drugs.

Antibiotics cannot treat the flu. The flu is a virus, and antibiotics only treat bacterial infections. However, some people develop secondary infections because of the flu. Children are especially vulnerable to ear infections , but adults can get them too. If symptoms suddenly change or get worse, this could mean that there is a new infection, which could be viral or bacterial.

People should try to see a doctor within 24 to 48 hours after flu symptoms appear, as this is when antiviral treatments are most effective. It is also important to see a doctor if symptoms do not improve after 7 days or new symptoms, such as ear pain, appear. Most people who get the flu will have symptoms that last between 3 and 7 days.

If they develop complications, they may be ill for longer. Thousands of people die from the flu every year. Children, older adults, or people with compromised immune systems are much more vulnerable to flu complications. People should take the flu seriously by resting and avoiding public places until their symptoms disappear. According to Gross, he is seeing at least one patient a day with the virus.

For perspective, he usually sees one a week — tops. There is no quick fix, according to the doctor. The virus must run its course. But there are ways patients can manage symptoms. Other simple steps can keep you from spreading infection to others or picking up a virus from other people around you at school, work, or at home.

When complications develop, a person will likely be sick for longer than a week or two, depending on the severity of the complication, how quickly a person receives treatment for it, and how well the patient responds to treatment.

Signs of severe complications that should prompt you to seek medical attention include the following, according to the CDC 6 :. A study published in March in the journal Clinical Infectious Diseases confirmed that immunity declines over the months following vaccination or infection. Getting vaccinated every year is important to lower your likelihood of getting the flu. It takes about two weeks to develop immunity to the flu, and experts recommend getting vaccinated before flu season is in full swing to ensure adequate protection.

But if you actually have the flu, you can get very sick. There is no cure for a cold, the CDC says — it will get better on its own.

People with health conditions such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease that put them at at high risk for flu complications should seek treatment right away. As for home remedies, there is evidence that zinc , taken by mouth in the form of lozenges, tablets, or syrups, can help reduce the length of colds if taken within 24 hours of the onset of symptoms, according to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health NCCIH.

The NCCIH adds that zinc can cause nausea and gastrointestinal issues, and that it can interact with other medication, such as antibiotics. Acetaminophen Tylenol and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen Advil, Motrin, and Ibuprin are effective treatments for fever and aches caused by either a cold or the flu. People with either illness should also be sure to rest and drink plenty of fluids.

By subscribing you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Health Topics. Health Tools.