Flu season arrives every winter. Most people recover at home, but the flu can be serious for some groups, and a vaccine is the best protection for most people.
How flu differs from a cold
Flu and colds share symptoms, but flu usually comes on suddenly and is more intense. Typical flu symptoms include fever, chills, aching muscles, fatigue, sore throat, a dry cough and a runny or stuffy nose. Flu is caused by influenza viruses, not the stomach bug, which is a separate illness.
Who is at higher risk
Flu can cause serious illness in:
- Adults over 65
- People with weak immune systems
- Pregnant people
- Residents of nursing homes or other long-term care facilities
- People with chronic conditions such as diabetes or heart disease
- Young children
When to call your provider
Call us if:
- Symptoms get worse despite rest and fluids
- A fever improves and then returns
- Symptoms last longer than two weeks
- You develop a chronic cough, or pain in your chest or ear
- You are in a high-risk group
Vaccines
The CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccine for everyone 6 months and older, with rare exceptions. It is still worth getting now if you have not yet had one this season.
Same-day sick visits
Our same-day sick visits help when you need to be seen quickly. Call (248) 690‑9181 to get seen or to schedule your flu shot.