Fall is almost here, bringing with it a long list of fall events to look forward to throughout the Orchards area. Weekends will be filled with pumpkin carving, corn mazes, and a trip to watch the apple cider pressing at Cedar Creek Grist Mill, in place of lazy pool days.
Along with the cooler weather, fall brings the return of two common respiratory illnesses: the common cold and the flu. These viral infections spread easily from person to person and leave you dealing with symptoms that range from mild congestion to more severe illness.
Before cold and flu season starts, take time to learn how these illnesses spread, what symptoms to watch for, and the steps you can take to protect yourself and your family. It is also important to know when symptoms may require a visit to your local AFC Urgent Care Orchards.
How the Common Cold and Flu Spread
Both a common cold and the flu are contagious viral illnesses that can spread when an infected person coughs or sneezes, releasing respiratory droplets into the air. You can become sick by breathing in these droplets or by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
These viruses are especially common during the fall and winter months. Over a billion cases of the common cold occur in the U.S. each year, while the flu causes an estimated 9 to 51 million illnesses annually.
What to Know About the Common Cold
The common cold is a viral infection that affects the nose and throat. More than 200 different respiratory viruses can cause a cold, although rhinoviruses are among the most common causes.
Adults typically experience 2 to 3 colds each year, with cases occurring most often between September and May. Children tend to catch colds more frequently and may experience 6 to 10 colds annually.
Common Cold Symptoms
Once a cold virus enters the body, symptoms usually develop within 1 to 3 days. Common symptoms include:
- Sinus congestion
- Runny nose
- Headache
- Chest congestion and cough
- Fatigue and tiredness
- Sore throat
- No fever or a very low fever (colds are less likely to cause a significant fever)
How Are Colds Treated?
There is currently no cure or vaccine for the common cold, and most cases improve without medical treatment. Recovery typically takes 7 to 10 days, although symptoms may last longer for children, older adults, smokers, and individuals in poor health.
Rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medications may help relieve symptoms such as congestion, headaches, and fever. However, if your symptoms continue to worsen or do not show signs of improvement, visit AFC Urgent Care Orchards. Our medical providers can evaluate your symptoms and recommend treatment options, including medication when appropriate.
Understanding the Flu and Why It Can Be More Serious
The flu, or influenza, is another contagious respiratory illness that affects the nose, throat, and lungs. Flu activity is generally highest from late fall through early spring, with cases commonly occurring between October and March.
Although the cold and flu can cause similar symptoms, the flu can be more severe and may lead to complications or hospitalization. Children and individuals with asthma, COPD, and other lung conditions may face a greater risk of developing flu-related complications.
One reason the flu remains a seasonal concern is that flu viruses continually change. Different strains and mutations circulate from year to year, which is why annual prevention efforts are so important.
Recognizing Flu Symptoms
Flu symptoms often appear suddenly and can be much more intense than those of a common cold. Many people describe the sudden onset of flu symptoms as feeling as though they have been “hit by a truck.” According to the American Lung Association, a person may also be able to spread the virus before realizing they are sick.
Symptoms usually last around 5 to 7 days, although fatigue can continue for weeks. Common flu symptoms include:
- Diarrhea or vomiting, which is more common in children
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Cough
- Body aches
- Runny nose
- Fever
- Chills
When to Seek Medical Help for Flu Symptoms
If you develop flu symptoms, staying home, getting plenty of rest, and drinking fluids can support your recovery. Continue to prioritize rest, hydration, healthy foods, and avoiding strenuous activity while your body recovers.
You should also limit contact with others when you are sick, particularly individuals who may be more vulnerable to respiratory viruses, such as infants and older adults.
Visit AFC Urgent Care Orchards if you experience a high fever that does not improve, are unable to keep fluids down, or have symptoms that last longer than three days. Our medical team can evaluate your symptoms, recommend an appropriate treatment plan, and provide prescriptions when necessary.
Simple Steps to Help Prevent Cold and Flu Illness
You cannot completely eliminate your risk of catching a cold or the flu, but practicing healthy habits can help reduce your chances of getting sick and limit the spread of viruses to others.
Take the following steps throughout cold and flu season:
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.
- Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol when soap and water are unavailable.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Limit close contact with people who are sick and avoid crowded settings when possible.
- Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
- Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow, and dispose of used tissues promptly.
In addition to these everyday prevention habits, there is another important way to protect yourself against the flu: getting an annual flu vaccine.
Why Getting Your Annual Flu Vaccine Matters
Getting your flu vaccination can help lower your risk of becoming sick with the flu and may also reduce the risk of serious complications and hospitalization if you do contract the flu. Because flu viruses change over time, the flu vaccine is updated regularly to provide protection against the strains expected to circulate during the upcoming season.
After receiving your flu shot, it can take up to 2 weeks for your immune system to build antibodies that help protect against the influenza virus. This is why getting vaccinated early in the season can help ensure you are protected before flu activity increases.
The flu vaccine’s protection also decreases over time, making annual vaccination important. If you are eligible to receive the vaccine, schedule your flu shot in September or October to prepare for the months ahead.
Get Ready for a Healthy Fall With AFC Urgent Care Orchards
Fall should be a time for enjoying cooler temperatures, family activities, and everything the Orchards area has to offer. Taking proactive steps to prevent illness, recognizing the differences between cold and flu symptoms, and knowing when to seek medical care can help you navigate the season.
If you or a family member becomes sick, AFC Urgent Care Orchards can help. Our clinic is open 7 days a week with extended hours.
Schedule your appointment at AFC Urgent Care Orchards for convenient, quality care!