Flu season can be confusing, especially when cold, flu, and other respiratory illnesses share similar symptoms. Many people ask themselves, “Is this just a cold, or do I have the flu?” Understanding the signs of influenza, when to get tested, and how to seek treatment can help you feel better faster, prevent complications, and stop the spread of infection to others.
At AFC Urgent Care Union City, we provide rapid flu testing, same-day treatment, and flu vaccinations for adults and children. Walk in today or plan your visit in advance to get care quickly and conveniently.
Identifying Common Flu Symptoms
Flu symptoms can vary from mild to severe, and they often appear suddenly. Common symptoms include:
- Fever or chills
- Body aches and muscle pain
- Fatigue and weakness
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Headache
- Nausea and vomiting, though more common in children
If your symptoms came on suddenly and feel more severe than a typical cold, it’s a strong sign that it may be influenza.
Flu vs. Common Cold: How To Tell The Difference
It can be tricky to know whether your symptoms are caused by a cold, the flu, or another illness. Here are some general ways to differentiate:
- Onset of Symptoms: Flu symptoms often appear suddenly, while cold symptoms usually develop gradually over a few days
- Fever: A fever is common with the flu but rare with colds
- Body Aches and Fatigue: Flu-related body aches are often more intense, and fatigue can last for days
- Nasal Congestion and Sneezing: More characteristic of a cold, though mild congestion can occur with flu
- Duration: Flu symptoms typically last longer and are more debilitating than cold symptoms
If you’re experiencing a combination of high fever, severe fatigue, body aches, and persistent cough, it’s advisable to seek flu testing and evaluation promptly.
When To Seek Flu Testing
Early testing is key for accurate diagnosis and timely treatment. You should consider visiting an urgent care center for flu testing if you experience:
- Fever, chills, and body aches
- Persistent or worsening cough and sore throat
- Sudden onset of fatigue or weakness
- Flu symptoms during peak flu season
- Close contact with someone diagnosed with influenza
- Underlying conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, or a weakened immune system
Rapid flu testing confirms whether you have influenza and helps your provider decide if antiviral medications are appropriate. Early treatment can reduce symptom severity and shorten the illness duration. At AFC Urgent Care Union City, rapid flu tests are performed on-site, allowing you to know results the same day. This helps you start treatment promptly and avoid unnecessary exposure to family, coworkers, or classmates.
Visit AFC Urgent Care Union City For Same-Day Flu Shots, Testing, and Treatment in Union City, NJ
At AFC Urgent Care Union City, we are committed to providing compassionate and reliable care for all patients, including those seeking urgent flu testing and treatment. We welcome patients from Union City and nearby communities, including West New York, North Bergen, Weehawken, and Guttenberg. Our services include rapid flu testing and treatment, flu vaccination, walk-in care for illnesses, and preventive care. Patients can walk in or schedule online to receive care quickly. Our experienced providers are here to answer your questions, guide treatment, and help you recover safely.
Don’t wait! If you suspect you have the flu, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Union City to get the care you need to feel better fast. For more information, please contact us directly at (551) 257-1948 to speak with a member of our team.
