Best answer to how long does the flu last: 3 to 7 days.
These days it seems as if everybody is worried about their health and safety as it relates to swine flu. There are many factors to determine if your cold is mostly harmless or the onset of a more serious flu. A person’s age, weight and general health also affect how quickly your antibodies fight off the viruses. Due to the multitude of different flu virus it’s difficult to determine exactly how long the flu lasts. Symptoms generally occur within 24 hours of contact or infection and include the chills, fever, body aches, fatigue, nasal congestion, coughing fits, and a red composure. If symptoms persist for more than 72 hours, consult your local doctor or physician. The young, elderly and those with weak immunities should be extra cautious and error on the side of safety. Seek medical attention at the first signs of the flu as it can be fatal to the above groups of people.
The similarities between influenza (the flu) and the common cold are extremely similar. The key to fighting the viruses is to begin resting your body immediately, drink plenty of fluids (WATER) and avoid inhibiting toxins such as alcohol or tobacco. Antiviral drugs such as Tamiflu may be required for the more serious cases. In an average human how long the swine flu, common cold or influenza will run its course is within 3 days to a week causing pain and ruining a week of life but they can all easily be treated with bed rest, immunity boosting liquids such as water and orange juice and viral inhibitors.