Flu season is here, and many people have questions about symptoms, treatment, prevention and when to seek medical attention. At BestMed Urgent Care, we want our community to feel confident and informed during this time of year. We’ve answered some of the most frequently asked questions about the flu, with guidance from our urgent care experts.
The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza viruses. Unlike the common cold, which is usually caused by milder viruses, the flu tends to come on suddenly and can cause more severe symptoms.
Flu symptoms often include:
Colds are typically milder, come on gradually and rarely cause high fevers or severe body aches. If you’re unsure whether you’re experiencing a cold or the flu, you can visit an urgent care clinic to get a quick and accurate diagnosis.
The flu virus spreads rapidly. When an infected person coughs, sneezes or talks, they release tiny droplets into the environment. Those droplets can be inhaled by another person or settle on shared surfaces where they can continue living and spreading by touch. Covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze, washing your hands frequently and avoiding close contact with sick individuals are important ways to prevent the spread of the virus and protect yourself.
While anyone can get the flu, certain groups of people are more vulnerable to serious complications, including:
For these groups, the flu can sometimes lead to pneumonia, hospitalization or other severe health issues. That’s why promptly seeking urgent care flu treatment promptly is so important if symptoms develop.
The most effective way to prevent the flu is by getting your annual flu vaccine. The flu shot is updated each year to match the most common circulating strains and is recommended for everyone 6 months and older.
In addition to the flu shot, you can reduce your risk by practicing good hygiene habits:
At BestMed Urgent Care, we offer convenient flu shots, making it easy to protect yourself and your family.
If you suspect you have the flu, monitor your symptoms carefully. Rest, stay hydrated and use over-the-counter fever reducers or pain relievers as needed. Most healthy adults recover in about one to two weeks without medical care.
However, you should visit urgent care for flu testing and potential treatment if you:
Our providers can perform an accurate flu test and, if needed and when appropriate, prescribe antiviral medication to reduce the severity and duration of your illness.
At an urgent care center like BestMed, our providers begin with a physical exam and a flu test. If you test positive, treatment may include:
If your condition is more severe, our team can refer you to a hospital for specialized care. Choosing urgent care for flu treatment gives you access to medical attention without the crowding and stress of emergency rooms.
This is one of the most common flu questions. Urgent care specializes in non-life-threatening injuries and illnesses and is therefore typically the most appropriate place to seek treatment for the flu. However, you should go to the emergency room if you experience very serious symptoms such as:
For anything else, flu care at BestMed Urgent Care can help you recover quickly and comfortably without the stress of going to the hospital.
At BestMed Urgent Care, we know flu season can be stressful for families. That’s why we provide:
Our goal is to help you and your loved ones stay healthy with trusted urgent care flu treatment that puts your needs first.
Flu season doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right knowledge and quick access to care, you can protect yourself and your family. If you have more questions or need urgent flu treatment, visit your nearest BestMed Urgent Care clinic today. Either book an appointment online or walk into a clinic near you in the following states: