Understanding the flu
Even when you take all the precautions, when the flu hits, it hits hard. If you develop sudden symptoms during flu season, it might be the time to look beyond your mom’s chicken soup and watching TV in your pajamas.
Once Fall rolls around, it might seem like everyone is talking about having the flu. This is because the flu is a highly contagious virus (influenza), and once someone is affected, he or she can quickly pass it to those around them. Also, since it is a virus, antibiotics can’t cure the flu.
What are common flu symptoms?
The flu affects your lungs, nose, and throat. Looking for signs you’re getting the flu? When you have the flu, you’ll know it. Symptoms of the flu hit quickly and include (but are not limited to) fever, chills, muscle or body aches, dry cough, runny nose, headaches, and an overall feeling of fatigue.
What are common causes?
The flu is a virus that is easily passed from person to person. Most commonly, this happens when an infected person sneezes or coughs without covering their nose or mouth. Tiny droplets are emitted into the air, even when a person is talking to close to you, and can land in your mouth, eyes or nose. Now you’ve been exposed to the flu virus. You may also catch the flu by touching an infected surface, like an elevator button, a shopping cart, or the handle on the subway, and then touching your nose or rubbing your eyes.
The flu is most contagious during the first few days of having it, so if you’re starting to feel sick, take extra precautions to not infect family, friends, and colleagues.
How to prevent the flu?
When flu season approaches, the best way to manage the flu is to prevent it—with a flu shot. A flu shot reduces your chance of getting the flu by up to 60%. Visit vybe urgent care for your flu shot today. Other preventive measures include washing your hands often and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces. Make sure to refrain from touching your face as much as possible as your eyes, nose, and mouth are the main passageways for the flu virus to enter your system.
Treatment options
Think it’s the flu? Stop by your local vybe urgent care as soon as you start feeling sick. Like all viral infections, the flu cannot be treated with antibiotics. However, certain medicines may help reduce your flu symptoms and help you recover more quickly if you get them in the first 48 hours.
Ready to visit a vybe?
With convenient Philadelphia area locations, stop by a local vybe urgent care today, and we’ll get you back on your feet.
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