How Long Is the Flu Contagious? What South Texas Families Should Know

StatCare Urgent Care
Jan 20
2 min read

One of the most common questions during flu season is how long someone with the flu is contagious. Understanding the contagious period can help protect family members, classmates, and coworkers from getting sick.

This is especially important for South Texas families with children in school or daycare.

When Is the Flu Most Contagious?

People with the flu are typically contagious:

One day before symptoms begin
Up to five to seven days after symptoms start

Children and individuals with weakened immune systems may remain contagious for a longer period.

Even if symptoms seem mild, the flu can still spread during this time.

Can You Spread the Flu Before You Feel Sick?

Yes. The flu can be spread before you realize you are sick. This is why flu outbreaks often spread quickly in schools, households, and workplaces.

Good hand hygiene and staying home when symptoms begin can help reduce transmission.

When Is It Safe to Return to School or Work?

Most people can return to school or work when:

Fever has been gone for at least 24 hours
Fever has resolved without the use of fever-reducing medications
Symptoms are improving

Children who still have a fever, significant cough, or fatigue should remain home to recover fully.

How to Reduce the Spread of the Flu at Home

Families can reduce flu spread by:

Washing hands frequently with soap and water
Covering coughs and sneezes
Cleaning frequently touched surfaces
Avoiding close contact with others while sick

These steps are especially important in households with young children or older adults.

When to Visit Urgent Care

You should consider visiting urgent care if flu symptoms:

Last longer than expected
Become more severe over time
Include dehydration, shortness of breath, or persistent fever
Affect high-risk family members

Urgent care providers can evaluate symptoms and help determine the best course of treatment.

Trusted Care Close to Home

StatCare Urgent Care provides walk-in evaluation for flu symptoms across South Texas. Our providers help families understand when it is safe to return to normal activities and when additional care is needed.

To learn more about services and locations, visit www.mystatcare.com.