Most healthy adults may be able to infect other people beginning 1 day before symptoms develop and up to 5 to 7 days after becoming sick. Children may pass the virus for longer than 7 days. Symptoms start 1 to 4 days after the virus enters the body. That means that you may be able to pass on the flu to someone else before you know you are sick, as well as while you are sick. Some people can be infected with the flu virus but have no symptoms. During this time, those persons may still spread the virus to others.

Influenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses(http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/viruses/index.htm). It can cause mild to severe illness. Serious outcomes of flu infection can result in hospitalization or death. Some people, such as older people, young children, and people with certain health conditions(http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/disease/high_risk.htm), are at high risk for serious flu complications. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting vaccinated each year.