Although flu season is most talked about in the fall months, flu season can last from early fall all the way through early spring. It is important to be vigilant about monitoring yourself for flu symptoms. Especially because treatments for the flu, such as Tamiflu, require that you take the medication within 48 hours of exposure. Keep reading to learn more about early symptoms associated with the flu so that you can get treatment. At AFC Urgent Care Bedford, our walk-in clinic offers same-day flu diagnosis and treatment. We don’t require you to schedule an appointment, simply walk into the clinic when it’s convenient for you. We’re open 7 days a week from 8am to 8pm and maintain short wait times!
How Quickly Do Flu Symptoms Show Up
The flu is caused by the influenza virus. Like most viruses, the influenza virus is extremely contagious from person to person. On average, flu symptoms appear about 2 days after exposure. During this time, you can unknowingly spread the flu without having any symptoms which is how the flu spreads so quickly.
Flu symptoms sometimes are ignored at first because they can mimic symptoms of a cold. However, flu symptoms can progress quickly so it is important to monitor yourself for early symptoms of the flu. Symptoms can last over a week and sometimes can turn into secondary infections such as pneumonia when not treated properly.
Common symptoms of the flu include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Congestion
- Sore throat
- Runny nose
- Fatigue
Flu Symptom Diagnosis & Treatment
If you suspect that you could have the flu, it is important that you seek immediate medical care. There are treatments available to help shorten the duration and reduce the severity of flu symptoms, however, they must be administered within 48 hours of exposure to the virus. Your medical provider will conduct a physical exam including listening to your lungs, examining your throat, and taking your temperature. They will also perform a flu test, which is typically done with a nasal swab. At AFC Urgent Care Bedford, our clinic has rapid flu testing on-site with results available in under 20 minutes.
Tips for Preventing the Flu
The flu is extremely contagious and can cause severe symptoms. It is important to reduce the spread of the flu by taking preventative measures. This mostly includes practicing good hygiene by washing your hands frequently and disinfecting surfaces often. Keep 6 feet distance between yourself and others when possible, and avoid touching frequently touched surfaces including door handles and faucets when possible. Getting your annual flu shot will greatly reduce your risk of contracting a severe case of the flu. It is important to get your annual flu shot early in the fall to protect yourself all flu season long.
Walk into AFC Bedford for Same-Day Flu Care in Bedford, MA
If you’re experiencing symptoms of the flu, AFC Bedford can help. We offer flu shots on a walk-in basis as well as rapid flu testing at our walk-in clinic with no appointment required! Simply walk into the clinic when it’s convenient for you, we’re open 7 days a week and maintain short wait times. Our on-site lab makes it easy to get diagnostic testing conducted when it’s convenient for you. We work with most medical insurance plans and offer competitive rates for our care. Walk-in today!
