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Temperatures are dropping, leaves are falling, and pumpkins are all around – all of that can only mean one thing – fall is here! Fall brings a nice change of scenery and plenty of family fun, but it also brings a not-so-fun cold and flu season. Cold and flu season goes well into winter and can last as late as early spring. As frustrating as it is, it’s something we all are used to dealing with. COVID-19, however, is new enough that everyone is still learning about it. Doctors and scientists are working hard to develop a covid-19 vaccine, but until they do, you can expect this new virus to make a traditional cold and flu season a little more difficult to manage.
Influenza
Influenza is a virus that can occur anytime of year but is most common during the fall and winter. The flu virus typically causes a very sudden onset of symptoms. Those symptoms commonly include a headache, runny or stuffy nose, cough, fever, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting, and fatigue. The severity of influenza can range from very mild symptoms to hospitalization and even death. Luckily, there is a highly effective flu vaccine available to everyone over 6 months of age. The flu vaccine significantly reduces your risk of getting the flu and helps to minimize the time and severity of your symptoms if you do get it.
Cold
The common cold becomes more popular around the same time as the flu. There is no vaccine to prevent a cold, but proper hand hygiene helps to lower your risk. If you do get a cold, you will likely experience a headache, watery eyes, runny or stuffy nose, post-nasal drip, and fatigue. A cold typically does not cause a fever or gastrointestinal symptoms. Treating a cold can usually be done at home using over the counter medications, rest, and hydration.
COVID-19
Since COVID-19 is still new, doctors still have a lot to learn! COVID-19 causes similar symptoms as the flu in addition to a sudden loss of taste or smell and difficulty breathing or shortness of breath. Symptoms begin anywhere from 2 to 14 days after exposure to the virus. AFC Urgent Care Conshohocken is able to perform standard PCR testing, antibody testing and rapid testing by appointment only seven days a week, after a telemedicine screening.
COVID-19 Testing & Walk-In Urgent Care in Conshohocken, PA
If you’re experiencing symptoms of a cold, flu, or COVID-19, your nearby urgent care center can help! COVID-19 diagnostic testing, flu shots, and symptom management medications are available at AFC Urgent Care Conshohocken. All COVID-19 related visits are by appointment only. If you are looking for a place to get your flu shot or treatment for a cold, we accept walk-in patients seven days a week, or you can check in online to reserve your spot. Most major insurance plans are accepted. For questions about walk-in urgent care or COVID-19 testing, please call 484-324-8051.
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