Influenza (flu) is a respiratory illness that affects up to 1 in 5 Americans each year. Flu viruses are very contagious, meaning the infection can spread easily between people through close contact. In most cases, the flu has mild to moderate symptoms but can leave us feeling unwell for weeks at a time. To avoid flu illness this winter, and prevent the virus from spreading in your community, take advantage of the preventative health services available at AFC Urgent Care Boulder. Protect yourself and your loved ones by getting your annual flu shot, and visit the walk-in clinic if you are in need of general illness treatment.
What are the signs and symptoms of flu?
The symptoms of flu tend to start very suddenly, and are usually more severe than the common cold. However, sometimes influenza can be difficult to distinguish on your own, as some symptoms can be an indication of another virus, like COVID-19. To receive a proper diagnosis of your symptoms, visit AFC Boulder. Once your illness is diagnosed, you will be on your way to treatment and recovery.
Some common flu symptoms treated at AFC Boulder include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Sore throat
- Body aches
- Fatigue
- Chills
- Headache
If you’re experiencing flu illness, we can help alleviate symptoms. Some groups of people are at a higher risk for flu-related complications – including infants, elderly people, and people with underlying chronic health conditions. If you fall into one of these categories, you may need to seek emergency care.
How long is flu contagious?
As mentioned, the flu is highly contagious. The virus can spread from person to person, or through droplets in the air. When someone infected with the flu coughs or sneezes, it’s possible they could contaminate those nearby. If you’ve been diagnosed with the flu, you are most contagious within three to four days after your illness begins. You can spread the virus up to a week after you’ve gotten sick. However, those with flu can even be contagious before symptoms are noticeable– up to 24 hours prior. Children and those with compromised immune systems can spread the virus even longer than a week. To stop flu from affecting your community, and those at a high risk for hospitalization, it is important to avoid close contact with others and public crowds when you’re sick.
How can I avoid flu symptoms?
The single most effective way to prevent getting sick with influenza is by getting your annual flu shot. Getting your flu shot early gives you the best chance of avoiding the flu this season. It’s ideal to get your shot prior to the flu’s peak in your community. At AFC Urgent Care Boulder, our team administers flu vaccines seven days a week– making flu prevention as accessible and easy as possible. Getting your flu shot not only protects you from symptoms, but those around you.
Contact AFC Boulder for Your Flu Shot Today
AFC Urgent Care Boulder is a great option to receive your flu shot, as the clinic stays open every day of the week. We strive to make flu vaccinations accessible when you need it. Don’t leave your family’s health up to chance and let your symptoms get the best of you this flu season. If you’re already experiencing symptoms, our qualified team of medical providers can help treat your illness. Visit AFC Boulder on a walk-in basis. If you have any additional questions about flu prevention, or other urgent care services we provide, call us directly at (720) 961-9700.
