The winter months often bring with them an increase in flu symptoms. Influenza, also known as the flu, infects thousands each year and can easily spread through air particles from coughs and sneezes. It can also spread by touching a surface contaminated with the flu virus.
According to the most recent data, we can expect flu season to peak slightly earlier this year than most – sometime between December and February – which means we are in the peak of flu season right now. In this blog post, we will discuss the symptoms, prevention, treatment, and when to seek medical help for the winter flu.
Flu Symptoms
The flu symptoms are usually similar to a common cold, but they tend to be more severe and come on much more abruptly than a cold. The following are the most common symptoms of the flu:
- Fever
- Aching muscles
- Chills
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Fatigue and weakness
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Headaches
Because flu, RSV, and Covid share many of the same symptoms but have different treatment options, it’s important to consult with a medical professional to determine which illness you have. At MEDIQ Urgent Care, we offer on-site testing for flu, Covid, and RSV, so you can be sure you are taking the right steps to treat your illness.
Flu Prevention
The best way to avoid the flu is by taking preventive measures. The following are some ways to prevent the flu:
- Get a flu shot every year
- Wash your hands often with soap and water
- Avoid crowded places like malls, schools, and public transport
- Cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze
- Avoid touching your face, eyes, and mouth
Your best protection against severe flu symptoms is the flu shot. The effectiveness of flu vaccines depends on how well vaccines align with the active flu strains, as stated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Annually, the vaccine’s composition is altered, based on predictions about which strains of the virus will be most prevalent. According to expert consensus, if the strains observed in the Southern Hemisphere match those we encounter in the US, the vaccine should be quite effective at preventing severe disease. This is due to the similarity of the vaccines, and a recent CDC study indicates that the vaccine utilized in the Southern Hemisphere resulted in a 52% reduction in flu-related hospital admissions during their flu season.
Flu Treatment
If you catch the winter flu, the best treatment is to get enough rest, stay hydrated, and treat the symptoms with over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen, cough suppressants, or anti-inflammatory drugs, as recommended by your doctor. In the case of severe flu symptoms, your doctor may prescribe antiviral medications that could shorten the duration of the flu.
When to Seek Medical Help
Although most cases of the flu will resolve with plenty of rest and the help of over-the-counter medications, severe cases can require urgent medical care. You should seek immediate medical attention if you have any of the following symptoms:
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- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Severe headache
- High fever that does not reduce with medication
- Dehydration
MEDIQ Urgent Care is Here to Help
Understanding the symptoms, prevention, treatment, and when to get medical help is critical to fighting the winter flu. Remember, prevention is better than cure. Take the necessary preventive measures and stay safe during the flu season. If you experience any severe symptoms, do not hesitate to seek medical attention. With three locations to serve you, MEDIQ Urgent Care is here to help. Whether you need a flu test or medication to manage your symptoms, we are here when you need us. Walk-ins are welcome, or you can reserve a spot online to sve time. Stay healthy and take care!
