Incubation and Containment

Many viruses can remain dormant for months to years following exposure but most produce signs of illness within 10 to 14 days.

Unfortunately, in most cases, a person is highly contagious in the days just before symptoms appear. This makes prevention paramount in reducing the spread of illness.

Containment is achieved when those who are ill stay home-away from work, school, malls, etc. — until their symptoms resolve to the extent that they are no longer contagious.

If you believe you have influenza, for example, it is important to see your doctor as soon as possible, as the medication used to reduce symptoms is only effective if given in the first 48 hours.