As the temperature drops, there's no denying that flu season is here. Influenza, a highly contagious respiratory illness, can wreak havoc on our daily lives, causing discomfort and significant health risks. Fortunately, there are many measures you can take to protect yourself and those around you this flu season. Visit AFC Urgent Care Edgewater for same-day illness care in Edgewater, MD with no appointment needed.
Best Practices For Preventing The Flu
Get Vaccinated
One of the most effective ways to prevent the flu is by getting your flu shot. Annual flu shots are recommended for people of all ages, especially those with underlying health conditions, compromised immune systems, the elderly, and young children. Getting vaccinated reduces the risk of contracting the flu and decreases your chances of experiencing severe flu symptoms if you do catch the flu. The flu vaccine is highly effective and safe for anyone ages six months and up.
Practice Good Hygiene
Simple yet powerful, maintaining good hygiene practices helps reduce your risk of catching the flu. Frequent handwashing with antibacterial soap and water, using hand sanitizer, and avoiding touching your face can prevent the transmission of the virus from contaminated surfaces to your respiratory system. The virus can live on surfaces for over a day, making it vital to avoid touching things like doorknobs in public spaces or ensure you sanitize immediately after.
The influenza virus is also transmittable through airborne droplets that are released by infected individuals when talking, coughing, or sneezing. If you're going to cough or sneeze, turn into your elbow or use a tissue to cover your mouth and nose to ensure you’re not spreading an illness unknowingly.
Boost Your Immune System
A healthy immune system is your body's first line of defense against infections, including the flu. Maintain a healthy lifestyle and promote stronger immune system health by eating a balanced diet with plenty of vitamins and minerals, regularly exercising, staying adequately hydrated, and getting enough sleep. These habits can contribute to a resilient, robust immune system.
Stay Home When You're Sick
If you're feeling unwell, stay home! This is the easiest way to prioritize your health and the health of those around you. When you're sick, going to work or social gatherings increases the risk of spreading the virus. Sometimes, it is impossible to avoid public spaces in the winter, which is why being responsible and staying at home if you have illness symptoms is the responsible thing to do. Resting and recuperating at home not only aids your recovery but also prevents the flu from spreading further.
When To Seek Medical Care At Urgent Care For Flu Symptoms
Even if you take measures to avoid contracting the flu, there are instances when you can catch the flu regardless of the precautionary measures you’ve taken. If you or a loved one experiences severe flu symptoms such as persistent high fever, difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion, or sudden dizziness, it is crucial to seek medical attention right away. Proper diagnosis and treatment can help you recover quickly.
When you’re suffering from illness symptoms, visiting your local urgent care center can provide timely and specialized care to address the severity of flu complications. Early intervention can prevent your symptoms from worsening. The flu shares many symptoms with other respiratory illnesses and requires diagnostic testing to confirm the presence of the influenza virus. Ensure you seek medical treatment if you are experiencing flu-like symptoms to receive the appropriate medical treatment.
Walk Into AFC Urgent Care Edgewater For Same-Day Illness Care In Edgewater, MD
If you’re experiencing illness symptoms and think you may be suffering from the flu, it is vital to seek professional medical care. At AFC Urgent Care Edgewater, our medical providers are trained to identify illnesses and perform diagnostic testing at the time of your visit. With a laboratory on-site, your test results will be available quickly, allowing our medical staff to create a customized treatment plan to manage your symptoms. Simply walk into our clinic, or schedule an appointment online.
When you’re feeling under the weather, it can seem inconvenient to seek medication attention. However, at AFC Urgent Care Edgewater, our walk-in clinic is open 7 days a week with extended business hours so that you can get the care that you need when you need it. We have short wait times and accept walk-in patients in Edgewater, MD, and the surrounding communities. We accept most medical insurance plans and offer affordable care options. Walk in today, or contact us directly for more information.
