Well, hello there, muscle aches, fever and cough. It looks like another flu season has arrived in and around the Knoxville area. Our team at AFC Urgent Care Chapman Highway wants to share some basic info about the flu—and remind you that it's not too late to get a flu shot.
What Is the Flu?
The flu is a common and extremely contagious virus that can sometimes turn into a more serious health condition, like pneumonia. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 5 to 20% of people living in the United States are diagnosed with the flu each year.
Flu Symptoms
- Body chills
- Dehydration
- Dry or wet cough
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Head congestion
- Loss of appetite
- Muscle pain
- Nasal congestion
- Runny nose
- Shortness of breath
Can I Prevent the Flu?
One of the best things you can do to is to get a flu shot each year in order to keep yourself and others protected from the flu. Even if you do happen to get the flu after getting a flu shot, the symptoms of the virus will be less severe and likely won’t last as long. In addition to the flu shot, you can take other steps to prevent the flu by washing your hands frequently, disinfecting commonly touched surfaces, and eating a healthy diet and getting regular exercise to boost your immune system.
Flu Treatment
- Bed rest
- Cough medicine
- Decongestant
- Plenty of liquids
- Throat lozenges
Have you had your flu shot? It’s not too late! Visit our AFC Chapman Highway location today to get a flu shot to lower your risk of getting the flu this season.
