The flu, or influenza, is a transmittable respiratory disease well-known for its easily detectable symptoms like fever, chills, body aches, and a nasty cough. However, beyond the common symptoms, many people wonder if the flu can also cause vomiting. This blog discusses the causes and symptoms of the flu, the connection between the flu and nausea/vomiting, and how getting a flu shot and seeking flu treatment at an urgent care facility can help you stay healthy during flu season. Understanding these aspects can better protect yourself and your loved ones during flu season.

Causes and Symptoms of the Flu

Influenza viruses cause the flu, infecting the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs. It's highly contagious and can spread through breathing in tiny droplets when someone with the virus sneezes coughs, or talks. Flu symptoms can be intense, and usually last about two weeks before resolving on their own. While the symptoms are unpleasant, they rarely require medical attention.

Typical flu symptoms include:

• A high fever
• severe fatigue
• muscle and body aches
• sore throat
• A dry cough
• Loss of appetite

Vomiting is not typically considered a primary flu symptom, although a general lack of appetite can be a symptom of the flu. Influenza primarily affects the respiratory system, and symptoms like nausea and vomiting are more commonly associated with gastroenteritis or "stomach flu." However, the flu can cause various symptoms, and some people, especially children, may experience gastrointestinal issues like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and respiratory symptoms.

How to Prevent the Flu

There are many misconceptions regarding the flu and whether the flu shot is the best avenue for preventing the flu during peak flu season. The CDC recommends that everyone get the flu shot in the early fall to protect themselves and the people around them from contracting the flu.

The misconceptions surrounding the flu shot often suggest that the flu shot is not safe, or that it gives you the flu. Instead, the flu shot acts by injecting a dead flu virus into your body to give your body a chance to make the necessary antibodies to fight the real flu virus if you ever were to contract it. Addressing these misconceptions is essential to encourage flu vaccination, which is important as it is the most effective means of flu prevention. Other methods of prevention include proper hygiene practices such as hand washing and disinfecting common touchpoints such as doorknobs and faucets.

Get Your Flu Shot at AFC Urgent Care Southcenter With No Appointment Necessary

An annual flu shot is one of the most effective ways to prevent flu. At AFC Urgent Care Southcenter, we offer flu shots on a walk-in basis, in addition to the ability to book an appointment on our website. Our clinic is open 7 days a week with extended business hours so that you can come in when it is most convenient for you.

If you or your loved one is feeling under the weather, visit AFC Urgent Care Southcenter for rapid flu diagnosis and treatment. We accept most medical insurance and provide low-cost care to patients who pay out of pocket. If you have additional questions regarding our clinic, please call us directly at 425-291-3300.