Recovery time depends on the type of infection, whether pneumonia is present, immune status, and how quickly appropriate treatment begins. Mild viral respiratory infections may improve within 7–10 days, although cough can persist longer. In bacterial pneumonia, improvement in fever and overall status is often expected within 48–72 hours after starting effective antibiotics, but full recovery can take 2–6 weeks. Older adults, people with chronic disease, and severe cases may take longer. Worsening shortness of breath, low oxygen levels, persistent high fever, or chest pain warrants prompt clinical reassessment.