Flu (Influenza)
Do you have aches and chills? It might be the flu. WellNow Urgent Care medical providers offer quick, quality care to help you feel better — so you can get back to being well, now.
What is the flu?
The flu is a viral infection that causes symptoms similar to a cold but with more severity. To prevent serious complications, such as pneumonia, it is important to seek care as soon as possible when you suspect you may have the flu.
Flu Symptoms
Common flu symptoms include:
Chills
Cough and/or chest discomfort
Fatigue or weakness for up to 2-3 weeks
Fever
Headache
General aches and pains
Runny nose
Sore throat
Is my cough actually the flu?
A cough can be a symptom of several illnesses and conditions, from the common cold to allergies to indigestion. If you have a persistent cough, it may be worth treating with a medical provider.
Do I have the stomach flu?
The stomach flu, also known as viral gastroenteritis, is a viral infection that affects your digestive system. While it can be similar to influenza, the stomach flu typically causes gastrointestinal symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea.
Do I have the common cold?
While there are several similar symptoms, the common cold tends to be less severe than the flu. Common symptoms include:
Chest and nasal congestion
Hacking cough
Runny or stuffy nose
Sneezing
Sore throat
Flu Treatment
The most common treatment of flu symptoms is self-care at home. There are also over-the-counter medicines that can ease your flu symptoms. These include painkillers, decongestants and cough syrups.How can I treat the flu at home?
Get plenty of rest to help your body’s immune system do its work. Rest includes getting lots of sleep and reducing your daytime activity levels.
Drink lots of water and other fluids. This will help prevent dehydration and also help ease a sore throat. Herbal teas, water, and soups are good options. Avoid caffeinated drinks.
Use hot compresses or heat packs to ease sore muscle pain.
When should I see a doctor for flu treatment?
You should see a doctor for your flu symptoms if:
You have a fever that improves, but suddenly gets worse
Your flu symptoms last longer than 2 weeks
You have concentrated pain in one area
You develop thick mucus and a persistent cough
You are in a high-risk group
People with the highest risk of severe flu complications include:
People aged 65 years and older
Those with chronic conditions, such as heart disease, diabetes, or asthma
People who are pregnant or up to two weeks post-partem
Nursing home residents
Children younger than 5 years (with the highest risk being for children under 2 years)
See a medical professional right away if you’re at a higher risk of complications. Prescription antiviral treatment for the flu can help protect you, but it needs to be taken quickly.
Flu FAQs
Where can I get a flu test?
You can receive a flu test at WellNow Urgent Care. Our urgent care centers are equipped to help you determine if you have a cold, the flu, strep throat or COVID-19. We offer convenient walk-in services, or you can check in online using our website.
How soon will I receive the results of my flu test?
At WellNow Urgent Care, we understand the importance of timely results. Flu tests are processed onsite and take about 15 minutes to complete. This means you can get your results during your visit and start treatment right away if needed.
Can children receive a flu test?
Yes, we offer flu tests for patients of all ages, including children. Our healthcare providers are experienced in working with pediatric patients and can provide the care and support your child needs.
How can I protect myself and others from the flu?
To prevent exposure to influenza A and B, it’s important to wash your hands often and thoroughly. Clean and sanitize frequently-touched surfaces and stay home when you’re sick.
Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself and the people in your life from the flu. Flu vaccines are designed to protect against the two variants of influenza A and the two subtypes of influenza B that are predicted to be most active that season. Even if you’ve had the flu recently, a flu vaccine can help protect you from the other types of flu in circulation.
Can a medical provider help diagnose and treat Flu A and Flu B?
Yes! There is flu testing that can help identify flu type and treatment for each. Causes and symptoms for Flu A vs Flu B can vary. We are here to help you understand and manage your illness.
When should you visit urgent care for flu diagnosis treatment?
If you suspect you have the flu and would like help diagnosing and treating your symptoms, check in online or walk in to a WellNow location nearest you.
This medical information has been reviewed for accuracy by Dr. Robert Biernbaum, Chief Medical Officer for WellNow Urgent Care.
Illnesses We Treat
WellNow Urgent Care treats a variety of illnesses, infections and diseases along with their
associated symptoms. If you are feeling uncomfortable or unwell, our dedicated medical
team is prepared to deliver a personalized and tailored treatment plan to help you get
better, faster.
This list contains our most commonly treated illnesses and symptoms. If you are
experiencing an illness not listed or are unsure of the source of your discomfort, visit a
WellNow location near you or start a virtual care session.