Fortunately, someone with normal health can handle such a virus just fine, and your immune system will deal with it, says Van Goor. That does take time. “Sometimes I hear from patients: I have been coughing for a week. But that is normal for up to two weeks.” As long as you are not very short of breath or critically ill, or have a fever for more than five days, patience is the most important thing, the doctor emphasizes.