Navigating your symptoms: What to do if you think you have the flu

It’s cold & flu season: Recognize symptoms and take action 

We are in the midst of cold and influenza (flu) season, along with a resurgence of COVID-19.  All of these viruses can cause similar symptoms; therefore, it is important to know possible differences and what steps to take to feel better and prevent spread.   

Quick action is crucial to reduce severity 

Quick action with flu is essential as illness can last two weeks or more without treatment. Young children under age 5; pregnant women; those with chronic illnesses including obesity; and adults over 65 are at higher risk for complications requiring hospitalization.   

Know the symptoms of flu 

Some distinguishing symptoms that often present with the flu include sudden onset of fever, chills, and significant muscle aches. People often describe the flu as feeling like they were “run over by a truck.”  Additionally, like other viruses, you can experience cough, congestion, sore throat, headache, and sometimes vomiting and diarrhea. 

If you think you have the flu, you should isolate yourself from others, wear a mask when in public, and seek care with your primary care provider or an urgent care clinic.  Many facilities have rapid testing capabilities. If you have significant underlying medical conditions, or if you experience shortness of breath or chest pain, the emergency room may be the best option for evaluation. 

Other key factors to aid in recovery are getting plenty of rest along with staying well hydrated.  Remember, you are most contagious in the first three to four days, so staying home is vital to reducing transmission in the community.  

Get your flu vaccine 

Lastly, the flu vaccine has been shown to reduce infection rates and disease severity. If you haven’t received your flu shot, make an appointment today; it’s not too late to protect yourself.