The flu season is pretty much kicking off at this moment.  As more people stay close together indoors during gatherings, work, and school the flu has a greater chance of spreading from person to person.

The best way to protect against the flu virus is with an updated flu vaccine known as a “flu shot.” Without a flu shot, your chances of getting the flu increase significantly and could lead to a variety of uncomfortable, or even painful, symptoms.

An early diagnosis of the flu is the best way to ensure that you and your families are protected during flu season! To learn more about accessible flu shots, make sure to visit AFC Urgent Care Shelton for same-day flu shots!

Fever is usually the first sign of the influenza virus!

A higher-than-normal fever after a few days usually means you’re coming down with a case of the flu. Usually, a fever is the very first sign that you are infected with the flu virus.

Flu usually begins with a fever followed by some respiratory symptoms. When the fever happens, it can take between 1-3 days to notice other common flu symptoms. Patients should record and monitor the severity of a strong headache or a potential fever for a day or two and then visit a nearby urgent care center to get treatment!

Flu symptoms that last long include sneezing, coughing, and congestion!

When the flu has fully spread throughout your body, then you’ll see the traditional symptoms of the flu such as sneezing, coughing, congestions, sore throat, and general respiratory irritation.

During this time, breathing becomes harder and your body is fatigued as it fights of the influenza virus. Usually, patients will need extended rest or days off in order for their body to completely fight off the flu virus. Extra rest allows your body to fully fight of the flu virus and prepare for the fatigue of needing to fight off the flu virus.

In extremely rare cases, the flu causes hospitalizations

Many patients may not fully realize that the flu can especially impact the health and safety of vulnerable individuals, which leads to hospitalizations. Patients that have trouble breathing or have other vulnerable medical conditions could need extra treatment in order to fight off flu effects.

To avoid the flu, simply visit AFC Urgent Care Shelton to get your flu shot and receive seasonal flu treatment for any potential flu-related illnesses!