Summer flu: symptoms, duration and how to recover quickly

When the temperatures rise and the sun shines, few people think about catching a cold. But the “summer flu” is a common and unpleasant reality. Although the name may suggest it, it is not really influenza, but usually a flu-like infection caused by certain viruses. Find out which symptoms are typical, how long the illness lasts and what you can do to feel fit again quickly.

What is a summer flu?

Summer flu is a respiratory infection caused by viruses that mainly occurs in the warmer months. While influenza viruses are the main cause of classic winter flu, summer infections are usually caused by enteroviruses or Coxsackie viruses. These viruses are particularly resistant and survive well in warm environments. They are mainly transmitted through smear infections, for example when shaking hands or through contaminated objects.

Caution: The terms “summer flu” and “influenza” are often confused. A real flu (influenza) is a serious illness. Summer flu is usually more harmless and corresponds to a severe cold.

Symptoms and duration of summer flu

The symptoms of summer flu are similar to those of a winter cold, but can also include gastrointestinal complaints. Typically, the illness begins with an incubation period of up to four weeks, during which you have already been infected but do not yet feel any symptoms. Once the disease breaks out, the following symptoms may occur:

• Sore throat and difficulty swallowing
• Runny nose and nasal congestion
• Cough, which can be dry or productive
• Headaches and aching limbs
• Mild fever and chills
• Fatigue and general malaise
• Gastrointestinal complaints such as abdominal pain or diarrhea

The summer flu usually lasts 3 to 7 days. After that, the symptoms subside. However, individual symptoms such as coughing can last even longer, as the mucous membranes of the respiratory tract must first fully recover.

Symptoms of the current flu:

The official flu season ended in spring 2025. What many now refer to as the “current flu” is mostly summer flu viruses. These can lead to the symptoms mentioned above, which are not fundamentally different compared to previous years.

Can you get rid of a cold in 24 hours?

The hope of getting rid of a cold or summer flu in just 24 hours or two days is unfortunately a myth. A viral infection takes time for the immune system to fight off. There are no miracle cures that provide an overnight cure. Instead, you should give your body the support it needs to fight the virus effectively.

• Plenty of rest: Take some time out and avoid physical exertion to relieve the immune system.
• Drink enough: Make sure you drink plenty of fluids, preferably water or unsweetened teas. This helps to loosen mucus and hydrate the body.
• Alleviate symptoms: Home remedies such as warm compresses, inhalations or a cold bath can alleviate symptoms such as coughs and headaches. If necessary, over-the-counter medication from the pharmacy can help.

When should you consult a doctor?

In most cases, summer flu subsides on its own. However, it is advisable to seek medical advice if the symptoms are particularly severe, last longer than a week or you suffer from a high fever that does not go down. If you experience shortness of breath or severe chest pain, you should seek medical advice immediately.

You can consult TeleClinic doctors from the comfort of your own home via an online consultation. You can describe your symptoms and receive a professional assessment. If indicated, a sick note or prescription* can be issued if the doctor treating you considers a remote diagnosis to be safe.

Conclusion: How to stay healthy in summer

A summer flu can dampen your vacation mood, but it doesn’t have to keep you out of action for weeks. With sufficient rest, fluids and symptom-relieving measures, you are well on the way to recovery. Remember that a quick recovery is not a realistic goal, but a solid recovery phase is crucial for your health. Pay attention to your body’s signals and don’t hesitate to seek medical help if your symptoms worsen.