Symptoms
Influenza is an illness which is different from, and usually much more severe than, the "common cold." It takes about 1-2 days from the time of exposure to the virus (i.e., infection) to the development of symptoms. This is called the "incubation period." Common symptoms include sudden fever, often as high as 104° F, with shaking chills, moderate or severe muscle and joint aches and pains, sweating, a dry cough, nasal congestion, sore throat, and headache. In addition, people infected with influenza complain of moderate or severe malaise and fatigue. Illness can last for up to 1-2 weeks, although fever generally lasts only 3-8 days.
Common Symptoms*
- Fever (up to 104° F)
- Chills (sometimes shaking)
- Muscle aches and pains
- Sweating
- Dry Cough
- Nasal congestion
- Sore throat
- Headache
- Malaise
- Fatigue
* Some or all of these symptoms may be present
Complications
One of the most severe complications of influenza is bacterial pneumonia. Influenza can damage the lining of the respiratory tract and let certain types of bacteria establish an infection. Streptococcus pneumoniae (the pneumococcus) and Staphylococcus aureus are two of the bacteria which can cause pneumonia after influenza infection. Pneumonia caused by the virus itself is less common, but may occur. Hospitalization and death may complicate influenza, especially in the elderly.
