Flu

What is the flu?

Influenza, or flu, as it’s commonly referred to, is a contagious viral infection that affects your nose, throat, and sometimes your lungs. It can come on suddenly and cause symptoms, including:

• Fever
• Sweats and chills
• Sore throat
• Congested or runny nose
• Headache
• Body aches and fatigue

If you get the flu, you may feel sick for a few days or your symptoms may linger for up to two weeks. If you have a compromised immune system, you might also develop complications, such as ear infections, sinusitis, or even pneumonia.

How can I tell if I have the flu or another illness?

While cold and flu symptoms are very similar, cold symptoms tend to be milder, and they don’t last as long. Additionally, cold symptoms develop slowly, and you’re not likely to have a fever, body aches, or headache like you would with the flu.

The best way to know if you have the flu is to make an appointment at IAM Healthy. Same-day appointments are available. Your provider talks to you about your symptoms and overall health and may take a swab from your throat or nose to do a rapid influenza test.

How is the flu treated?

Since the flu is a virus, the best thing you can do is take a few days off of work or school to stay at home and rest. Your provider can prescribe medications to soothe your symptoms or offer an antiviral drug, which could help you recover faster.

While you’re resting, make sure to drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. You may also find that an over-the-counter pain medication relieves some of your symptoms.

Should I have a flu shot?

The flu is a very contagious and potentially dangerous illness, and you should talk to your provider at IAM Healthy about whether a flu shot is right for you.

For example, certain groups, such as the elderly and children under the age of 5, should have flu shots at the beginning of each flu season to protect their health. Similarly, if you’re a teacher or if you work with the public and have a high risk of coming into contact with the flu virus, you should have a flu shot.

If you have asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or another chronic illness that could increase your risk of complications from the flu, you should make sure to have a flu shot.

If you’re concerned about the flu, call IAM Healthy or make an appointment online today.