I think I have the flu. How long should I stay home from school? – Bret* Staying home as soon as you notice flu symptoms is the best way to stop the flu from spreading. It's also best for your health: Resting might help you recover faster. People who have the flu should stay home until at least 24 hours after their fever has gone away on its own (without the help of fever-reducing medicines). Of course, if you still don't feel better even after your fever is gone, you'll want to keep resting until you do. If it seems like you're taking a long time to get well, or if you're having trouble breathing, call your doctor. *Names have been changed to protect user privacy. Back to Articles Related Articles The Flu Vaccine Doctors recommend that all teens get vaccinated against the flu. Here are the facts on flu vaccines. Read More Flu Facts Every year from October to May, millions of people across the United States come down with the flu. Get the facts on the flu - including how to feel better if you get it. Read More 5 Ways to Fight the Flu Get tips for fending off the flu in this article for teens. Read More Flu Center Get the basics on how flu spreads and how to protect yourself. Read More I'm Pregnant. Should I Get a Flu Shot? Find out what the experts have to say. Read More Hand Washing: Why It's So Important Did you know that the most important thing you can do to keep from getting sick is to wash your hands? If you don't wash your hands frequently, you can pick up germs from other sources and then infect yourself. Read More Germs: Bacteria, Viruses, Fungi, and Protozoa Germs are tiny organisms that can cause disease - and they're so small that they can creep into your system without you noticing. Find out how to protect yourself. Read More Note: All information is for educational purposes only. For specific medical advice, diagnoses, and treatment, consult your doctor. © 1995-2021 KidsHealth®. All rights reserved. Images provided by The Nemours Foundation, iStock, Getty Images, Veer, Shutterstock, and Clipart.com.