From the Research
After testing positive for the flu, you should isolate until at least 24 hours after your fever has gone away without the use of fever-reducing medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), as this approach can reduce the attack rate by a median of 29% according to the CDC-recommended policy 1. This typically means staying home for about 4-7 days from when symptoms began. During isolation, it is crucial to:
- Stay in a separate room from others when possible
- Wear a mask if you must be around people
- Cover coughs and sneezes
- Wash hands frequently
- Avoid sharing personal items This isolation period is important because flu viruses spread primarily through respiratory droplets when infected people cough, sneeze, or talk, and you're most contagious in the first 3-4 days after illness begins. Children and people with weakened immune systems may be contagious for longer periods. While isolating, rest, stay hydrated, and take prescribed antiviral medications like oseltamivir (Tamiflu) if given by your healthcare provider, which work best when started within 48 hours of symptom onset, as supported by studies on the treatment of influenza 2, 3, 4. It's also worth noting that shortening the school week to 4 days can reduce the attack rate by 73% for influenza, as suggested by a mathematical model of school outbreaks 1. However, the most effective approach is to follow the CDC-recommended isolation policy and take antiviral medications as prescribed, as these methods have been shown to be effective in reducing the duration and severity of influenza symptoms 2, 3.