Stages of the Flu

During the 2022 to 2023 season, there were over 74,000 lab-confirmed cases of the flu in Canada. For many families, the flu means missed school days, loss of work, and, in severe cases, hospitalization. 

The flu hits in stages, each with its own set of symptoms and discomfort. But by understanding these stages, you can better manage the illness and help protect your loved ones — and your community — from its spread.

Stages of the flu & associated symptoms

The flu season in Canada is marked by an uptick in reported infections — usually around the beginning of the school year — and by winter, it’s in full swing. The flu progresses through a series of stages, each with specific symptoms. These stages typically span from seven to 10 days, although the duration varies, depending on the individual’s health and the strain of the virus.

Stage 1: Exposure to the virus 

The flu virus is highly contagious, and you may not even know you’ve been exposed until symptoms start to appear. The virus is commonly spread through droplets when an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks. If you think you or a family member has been exposed to the virus, prioritize rest and hydration, and avoid close contact with others.

Stage 2: Onset of symptoms

Symptoms show up within 24 to 48 hours after exposure. Early symptoms often resemble the common cold, including a sore throat, mild headache, and a general feeling of being unwell. However, the flu tends to progress rapidly, with symptoms intensifying within hours. Plan to rest, ensure you have over-the-counter medicines as well as pain relievers (analgesics) and fever reducers (antipyretics) on hand to manage more severe symptoms and drink plenty of fluids to help fight the virus.

Stage 3: Peak symptoms

Around 48 to 72 hours after exposure, flu symptoms tend to peak. This is the most challenging phase, where symptoms like high fever, severe headache, muscle aches, fatigue and dry cough are often at their worst. The severity of symptoms varies, but this is typically when individuals feel the most unwell. Keep a fever down using acetaminophen or ibuprofen. Warm baths with epsom salts may help to relieve the muscle aches and allow for a more comfortable sleep. 

Stage 4: Recovery phase

By the fourth or fifth day, the fever usually subsides, and symptoms start to improve, although fatigue and a lingering cough may persist. It’s a good idea to continue to rest, hydrate, and maintain healthy habits during this period. 

Resuming normal activities

While most flu symptoms diminish by day seven, it’s important to take it slow — resuming regular activities too early can prolong fatigue and other symptoms. 

Adults can spread the virus for up to six days after incubation and the onset of symptoms. Children can continue to spread the virus for up to 21 days. Continue to monitor the health and progress of your young ones to ensure a full recovery before sending them back to school.

Managing the flu at home

Once you notice symptoms of the flu, the best approach to managing it is to take care of your body to support recovery.

Rest and hydration

Rest is crucial during the flu because your body needs energy to fight off the virus. The body undergoes a restoration process during the sleep cycle that helps support the immune system.

Hydration is equally important for managing the flu at home. A fever increases the risk of dehydration through excess water loss. Drinking plenty of fluids — including water, bone or vegetable broth, and 100% juices — helps move oxygen and nutrients through the blood and increases lymphatic drainage and the elimination of toxins.

Over-the-counter medications

Medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help reduce fevers and relieve a sore throat and body aches. Acetylsalicylic acid (Aspirin) also reduces fevers in adults, but it’s not recommended for children or teens due to its association with Reye’s syndrome, a serious illness that can cause seizures and liver damage.

Over-the-counter medications like cough suppressants, expectorants, and topical ointments may help relieve a flu cough As with any medication, follow the dosage instructions and consult with a pharmacist or healthcare provider if you’re unsure whether it’s suitable for you or a family member.

Home remedies for symptom relief

While it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional for serious cases of the flu, many Canadians reach for home remedies to alleviate flu symptoms and promote faster recovery. Try these to help relieve your mild flu symptoms: 

• To reduce congestion, fill a large bowl with hot water, place a towel over your head, and inhale the steam.
• Soothe a sore throat with warm, clear broths and nourishing soups. For anyone over 12 months, add honey to warm water or an herbal tea to help relieve throat pain. Add ginger to aid digestion and support the immune system.
• Reduce microbial growth and inflammation in the throat with a saltwater gargle.
• Boost your immune system with vitamin-rich fruits and vegetables like citrus fruit, bell peppers, and leafy greens.

How to help prevent the flu

Preventing the flu is a community effort that helps protect vulnerable populations. While no method is foolproof, several strategies are effective for reducing your risk of catching the flu and spreading it to others. 

Here’s how you can protect yourself and your family:

• Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water.
• Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers.
• Disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
• Avoid close contact with sick individuals. 
• Practice a healthy lifestyle: Eat a nutrient-rich diet, get regular exercise and plenty of sleep and reduce your stress.
• Cough and sneeze into your elbow — not your hands — if a tissue is not available. Properly dispose of tissues immediately after use.

Annual flu vaccination can help prevent certain flu strains and decrease the duration and severity of symptoms. To find out if the flu vaccine is right for you, speak to your primary care provider (PCP).

If you’re one of the 6.5 million Canadians who lack easy access to healthcare providers, Maple can connect you with a Canadian-licensed doctor or nurse practitioner via secure text, audio or video call.

When to seek medical attention for the flu

In some cases, the flu can lead to complications that require medical attention. If symptoms worsen or don’t improve after a few days, consult a healthcare professional. Maple makes it easy to talk to a primary care provider online about your flu symptoms 24/7/365 in minutes over secure text, audio, or video call. 

Primary care providers, like doctors and nurse practitioners, can assess your symptoms and, at their discretion, provide a prescription to help with symptoms if needed. 

Diagnosing the flu usually involves a clinical assessment and, in some cases, a lab test to confirm the presence of the virus. Early diagnosis can help manage symptoms and prevent complications.

Understanding the stages of the flu and managing your symptoms appropriately can significantly impact recovery time and prevent the spread of the virus to others. By recognizing the stages of the flu and knowing when to seek help, you can navigate the flu season with more confidence and enjoy a smoother return to routines.

The information presented here is for educational purposes and is not meant to replace the advice from your medical professional. Virtual care is not meant for medical emergencies. If you are experiencing an emergency like chest pain or difficulties breathing, for example, please call 911 or go to your nearest emergency room.