How Long Do Flu Germs Incubate?

The flu is caused by various strains of the influenza virus. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), the flu affects between 5 to 20 percent of the population each year.

Significance

• The incubation period of the flu refers to the period of time it takes for symptoms to manifest after you have been affected by the influenza virus.

Time Frame

• According to the CDC, it takes about 1 to 3 days for flu symptoms to show up after you've been affected, though it can take less time.

Function

• While the flu is incubating, your body is producing more white blood cells than normal to fight off the infection making you feel tired and feverish before more serious symptoms manifest.

Considerations

• According to the CDC, people with the flu are contagious the day prior to showing symptoms and then for another 5 to 7 days.

Warning

• According to the CDC, about 2,000 people are hospitalized as a result of the flu and 36,000 die from complications each year.