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Influenza is something that is very common, but also very preventable! It’s important to know the common symptoms of the flu and understand what to expect if you get the virus. Identifying the flu and understanding the severity of your case is especially important this year, since hospitals are already overrun with COVID-19 cases.
Flu Symptoms
Common flu symptoms include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Runny nose
- Stuffy nose
- Chills
- Body aches
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea
Not every case of the flu will present all of these symptoms. People who suffer from underlying medical conditions and the elderly are more likely to experience more severe symptoms. In severe cases, the flu can result in pneumonia.
How Long Does the Flu Last?
The flu can last anywhere from 3-7 days, with some symptoms lingering for up to two weeks. The longer the virus is in your body, the more severe your symptoms will become. Once you’ve started a treatment plan or your body begins to naturally fight the virus, your symptoms should start to improve.
Prevention and Treatment
The flu is something that no one wants to deal with, so it’s a wonderful thing that it’s actually preventable! The flu vaccine is available each year to anyone over the age of 6 months old. A flu shot protects you against the virus with over 80% accuracy. If you do get the flu after getting your flu shot, your symptoms won’t last as long as they would without the vaccine and should be milder and easier to manage.
If you suspect you have the flu, visiting an urgent care center is an affordable and efficient way to know for sure! With flu tests available, you’ll be able to leave the urgent care knowing if the flu is responsible for your symptoms. An urgent care center can also help to treat flu symptoms if you contract the virus. Medical professionals may prescribe an antiviral medication to lessen your symptoms and the duration of the infection. They can also offer advice on how to make your symptoms more manageable at home and provide a doctor note to excuse you from work or school so that you don’t have to risk spreading the virus.
Rather you’re looking to prevent or treat the flu, urgent care can help! contact your local urgent care center today to learn more about scheduling, treatment, and vaccinations. If you need a flu shot then call AFC Urgent Arlington today to learn more or just walk in for a shot when you can!
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