Influenza: This is how you can tell immediately if you have the virus

The flu season is starting again.

But sometimes you feel bad, but you don't really know whether it is really a viral infection.

The editors explain.

Munich - When the days get cold and wet, viruses and pathogens have an easy time of it again.

Because the immune system of many people is then weaker than usual. The flu is on the rise.

But in times of Corona, many are unsure: If I have symptoms, how do I know that I have a flu infection?

Influenza is an acute infection of the respiratory tract.

Influenza: This is how you can tell immediately if you have the virus

In contrast to a cold *, which usually comes insidiously, it is typical for influenza that it starts suddenly.

This means that in the majority of cases it occurs without warning in healthy people.

(Also read: Despite Corona: The flu vaccination is really that effective this year *)

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Influenza viruses are at work again, especially in the cold months.

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© Iordache Magdalena / Imago

The reason for this is that the incubation time *, i.e. the time from infection to the onset of the first symptoms of the flu, is only about one to two days.

Again, the problem is that people who become infected with the virus are already highly contagious.

The following symptoms indicate influenza * illness:

• High fever*

• chills

• Exhaustion *

• Sweats

• headache

• Cough*

• Limb and joint pain

• Sore throat

• Loss of appetite

• dizziness

• Eye pain

However, not all signs of illness have to be present in those affected *.

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Influenza: The course of the disease can take days to weeks

But symptoms such as high fever or aching limbs can strongly indicate flu *, says the information portal lungenaerzte-im-netz.de.

In many cases, the fever lasts for three to four days, the dry cough even for several weeks.

If the fever gets worse, however, there could also be a bacterial infection behind it.

Then it is advisable to go to a doctor again.

According to doctors, a flu-like infection generally lasts between seven to 14 days *.

However, in the end, those affected may have to grapple with symptoms * for weeks afterwards and feel weak, have no appetite or feel uncomfortable overall.

This article contains only general information on the respective health topic and is therefore not intended for self-diagnosis, treatment or medication.

In no way does it replace a visit to the doctor.

Unfortunately, our editors are not allowed to answer individual questions about clinical pictures.

List of rubric lists: © Iordache Magdalena / Imago