Did you know that flu season runs until the end of May? If you haven’t received your annual flu shot yet, there’s a significant chance you can be impacted by influenza. There are many questions that arise each flu season, including confusion about how the virus spreads. This blog will answer commonly asked questions about flu season and outline treatment options if you are diagnosed.
Visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Aurora Saddle Rock for flu shots and flu treatment seven days a week. The urgent care center operates on a walk-in basis, so simply stop in whenever you need care!
How Does Flu Spread?
Each year, new strains of influenza affect our community. That’s why it is important to get a flu shot each year to combat the changing virus. Influenza is highly contagious and can easily spread from person to person. The virus typically spreads through droplets in the air. When other sick people cough or sneeze, these droplets contaminate the air and can cause other people to be infected.
Although less common, the flu can also live on surfaces or objects. When someone touches a contaminated surface, then touches their mouth, nose, or eyes, they can also risk getting infected with the virus. It’s important to be aware of how flu spreads so you can be better informed about preventing the illness from further spreading to your family, friends, and larger community.
What Are The Symptoms of Influenza?
There are many uncomfortable symptoms of the flu, that generally last anywhere from one to two weeks. The severity and duration of flu symptoms can depend on a person’s overall health and medical history. If you’re experiencing any symptoms of the flu, it’s important to be properly diagnosed so you can follow the right treatment regimen.
Common symptoms of the flu include:
- Fever / Chills
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Congestion
- Runny / Stuffy nose
- Fatigue
- Body aches
- Headaches
How Is The Flu Treated?
Once you’ve been diagnosed, there are treatment options available to help you find symptom relief. To start, make sure you’re letting your body rest. Give yourself time to recover from the virus. Additionally, be sure to drink plenty of liquids to avoid dehydration. You can take over-the-counter medications to manage your symptoms and reduce your fever, as well.
For more information about treating and preventing influenza, visit AFC Urgent Care Aurora Saddle Rock today. Our team of board-certified medical providers can examine your symptoms and diagnose flu via on-site labs. Don’t let your symptoms get the best of you this year. If you have any additional questions, please contact our medical office directly at (303) 529-3300.
