Spring is in the air! There is no need to worry about the flu, right?

Unfortunately, even during the spring season, you can still catch the flu. Our team at AFC Urgent Care Portland wants you to stay safe this spring by learning the signs of the flu, as well as ways to prevent the illness in the first place.

How Long Does the Flu Last?

If you’ve ever had the flu, you know that the symptoms seem to stick around forever! But while it feels like forever, it’s probably more like five days or a week.

The flu is a very contagious viral illness that’s passed through air droplets let out by a sneeze or cough. If you begin to exhibit symptoms of the flu, steer clear of others and seek medical attention.

Signs of a Flu

• Runny or stuffy nose

• Sore throat

• Cough

• Congestion

• Slight body aches or a mild headache

• Sneezing

• High-grade fever

How Can I Prevent the Flu?

You already know this, but we’ll say it anyhow—your best defense against the flu is to always get an annual flu shot. This vaccine is retooled each year and helps protect your body from certain strains of the flu. If you haven’t been vaccinated yet, it isn’t too late, so stop by today!

You can also take other steps to prevent the flu, including washing your hands regularly with soap and water, disinfecting commonly touched surfaces, and not touching your unwashed hands to your face.

Treatment of the Flu

• Take an antiviral medication, if one is prescribed.

• Stay hydrated.

• Get plenty of rest.

• Soothe symptoms with OTC medications.

• Sip warm liquids.

• Add moisture to the air using a humidifier.

Are you feeling under the weather? Do you think it could be the flu? Visit our medical team today! No appointment is needed.