The flu is unpredictable. The timing, severity and length of the flu varies from person to person and year-to-year. This makes it difficult for patients and providers to know if they, have the flu or just a common cold. The other questions people have is how to treat their symptoms. Is it okay to stay home and rest or to seek treatment?  Know there is treatment out there for the flu for certain people.

When should I see a primary care physician?

If someone with the flu has just a mild illness no medical treatment is needed. If you get sick with mild flu symptoms just stay home and avoid contact with other people. Other good suggestions include; handwashing, plenty of rest, and treat the symptoms with over-the-counter medications.

For those people who are in a high-risk group (immunocompromised, elderly, very young, etc.), or have severe symptoms should seek medical assistance. If you are seen within the first day or two of your symptoms, antiviral medication can help shorten the course and severity of the illness. After 48 hours the antiviral medication is not effective and supportive care is advised. The sooner the antiviral is started the greatest benefit it has.

Flu Symptoms Include:

• Fever of 101 or higher
• cough
• sore throat
• runny or stuffy nose
• body aches
• headache
• chills
• fatigue

When to return to school/work?

The flu will typically last 5-7 days. You should be able to return to school or work once you are fever free for 24 hours (without Tylenol or ibuprofen). Your symptoms should also improve in that time frame but sometimes they don’t resolve as quickly. A cough more than two weeks needs additional follow up, especially if it is productive. 

More Questions?

At Kountry Healthcare we have flu testing available. They are $20 in addition to the $30 office visit. If you are concerned you have the flu or just feel under the weather, feel free to make an appointment or just walk in. We are open Monday-Thursday 8-6pm. Call 765-301-3196 or visit www.kountryhealthcare.com for more information.