How Long Are You Contagious With The Flu?

Just because you're feeling better doesn't mean you can't get other people sick. Turns out, you can spread the flu for longer than you might think.

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Credits:
Produced by Madeline Sofia, Adam Cole, Meredith Rizzo, Ryan Kellman
Animation: Daniela Sherer
Supervising Editor: Nicole Werbeck
Chief Science Editor: Andrea Kissack
NPR Director of Visuals: Keith Jenkins
Flu Victim 1: Geoff Brumfiel
Flu Victim 2: Rhitu Chatterjee

Copyright © 2018 NPR. All rights reserved. Visit our website terms of use for further information.

[Scribblescrabbly]

Been watching a bunch of flu vids because I currently have it. I must say this is among the most informative and fun to watch out there.

[hawkthehunter]

I've been coughing up mucus for 3 weeks, sorry but there is no way I could take that many sick days without being fired.

[Abelhawk]

And this is why I wish companies would separate vacation days and sick days.

[KlunkerRider]

This is why most businesses only give you 1 or 2 sick days then wonder why the entire office gets sick, stupid businesses.

[BadRonald]

It's like my Mom said 3 days to get it, 3 days to have it, and 3 days for it to go a way.

[elianasmith]

Usually, I never comment on videos but your video is so convincing that I never stop myself to say something about it. You’re doing a great job Man, Keep it up.

[kyussandtheboys]

Felt it taking its course Tuesday after work. Wednesday I was straight garbage and same for this morning. Now since noon I’ve felt great in comparison and feel good enough to go. I work at a factory with a lot of people tho and really dont want to spread it. I have the days but at the same time I feel bad for calling in. Suffer or suffer..

[kerizmarolle]

“Get out my house “😂😂 I have a flu and needed this laugh 😂

[karinedwards]

Great video! However it assumes that people have the opportunity to stay home from work. It would be great to add that if you do have to go to work, it helps a lot if the sick person wears a mask. Mask-wearing by the sick person is much more effective in preventing the spread of germs than healthy people wearing one.

[danielleanner]

I think the addition of Maddie is fine as long as Adam and his green chair stick around. <3

[dfinma]

2:36 Sound guy in reflection and microphone cord in upper left corner. I'm glad they left it in :-)

[danalarose]

Lol I needed this. I'm super crabby from being stuck in bed for days, this is really informative and funny. "Get out of my house".

[sexcdoll]

your so lucky if don’t have body aches during the flu it’s a living hell i’ve been crying for the past 2 days 😢

[khanjisantos]

That’s what I been saying, if it sounds like you got a cough. You’re contagious AF, you shouldn’t be near anyone n especially be at work

[krollpeter]

Thank you for just answering a relevant question without 15 minutes blabla ahead!

[piplupcola]

Dang now I don't wanna breathe anywhere now

[amandachristi]

Hi Maddie! Great video! Can you do one where you explain the difference between influenza and the stomach "flu"? I am so tired of explaining every year that influenza is respiratory and not gastrointestinal.

[fleridameza]

"Get out of my house!" Lol!!

[USABeauboy]

Netti pot seems to work for me. Started using about a year ago ONLY when I feel a tingle coming on / virus in nose. Yes you can tell. Fatigue. Itchy nose. Sneezing. Boom! Catch it wash it out.

[maddisonmccarthy]

0:20 I want that lunch box, it is glorious