average time to recover from the flu
The severity of symptoms is related to the severity of the fever. Fever and systemic symptoms typically last 3 days, occasionally up to 4-8 days, and gradually diminish; however, cough and malaise may persist for more than 2 weeks. Second fever spikes are rare. The physical findings are summarised in table 3. Full recovery may take 1-2 weeks, or longer, especially in the elderly. Table 3. Physical findings of uncomplicated influenza. Fever: rapidly peaking at 38-40Â°C (up to 41Â°C, especially in children), typically lasting 3 days (up to 4-8 days), gradually diminishing; second fever spikes are rare.