Flu Q & A

What is the flu?

The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by viruses similar to the common cold. The flu, however, is more severe and can lead to serious or life-threatening complications in some cases. Getting tested for the flu with a rapid flu test is the best way to know if you have it.

What are the symptoms of the flu?

The flu is associated with the following signs and symptoms:

• Sore throat 
• Nasal congestion
• A dry, persistent cough
• Fever over 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit
• Muscle or body aches
• Headaches
• Sweats and chills
• Weakness
• Fatigue

You or your child may also have diarrhea or vomiting with the flu, but not everybody experiences these symptoms.

The flu is similar to a cold, but flu symptoms are more severe. While colds usually develop slowly, the flu can appear suddenly. It may lead to complications like ear infections, sinus infections, asthma flare-ups, bronchitis, heart inflammation, and pneumonia.

How is the flu spread?

You can contract the flu from other people with the virus if they talk, sneeze, breathe, or cough near you. Tiny droplets containing the flu virus can spread through the air and get into your mouth or nose. The flu also spreads from person to person through shared surfaces and touching your nose, mouth, or eyes. Getting a flu vaccine lowers your risk of contracting the virus.

How is the flu diagnosed?

To diagnose the flu, the Acton Urgent Care team reviews your medical history and symptoms and completes a physical exam. They may diagnose the flu based on your symptoms or use a rapid flu test to know for sure if you or your child has the illness. Your provider simply swabs your nose or throat, tests the sample, and receive results in about 15 minutes or less.

What is the treatment for the flu?

You or your child’s personalized flu treatment plan depends on the severity of symptoms. Your Acton Urgent Care physician might recommend:

At-home treatments

To help combat flu symptoms while you recover, get a lot of rest, drink plenty of fluids, take over-the-counter pain relievers, or use decongestants to relieve congestion.

Medications

In the case of severe flu, your doctor may prescribe antiviral medications to shorten the duration of your illness and help prevent complications. However, some of these medicines might produce nausea or vomiting, especially when taken without food. Your doctor reviews the risks and benefits with you.

If you’d like to get tested for the flu, are ready for symptom relief, or would like to receive a flu vaccine, call Acton Urgent care, use the online scheduler, or simply walk in today.