Also known as influenza, the flu can be contracted all year long. However, it most often occurs throughout the fall and winter months due to the low temperature and humidity experienced throughout a large portion of the country. Knowing when flu season begins will help you identify symptoms early so you can seek treatment at an urgent care facility. 

A Guide to Flu Season

How Long Does Flu Season Last?

Most years, flu season lasts 13 weeks. The early part of the season begins in October, with doctors diagnosing more cases of influenza as the weather changes. The number of these cases will slowly increase through November. 

Peak flu season usually occurs between December and February when temperatures are at their lowest.  

The season tapers off as spring begins in March, with cases almost disappearing by April. However, since every year is different, there have been instances of the season lasting into May. 

How Is the Flu Transmitted? 

While the weather does provide the conditions necessary for the flu to thrive, it’s often contracted through interactions with others. People spend more time indoors and away from the cold, but those who are infected and not yet symptomatic can pass the influenza virus to others. It’s primarily transferred through germs that are spread while coughing, sneezing, or talking. 

Who Is at the Highest Risk of Experiencing Flu Complications?

Most people who contract the flu usually recover within two weeks, though some might feel better after a few days.However, some people experience minor complications, including sinus and ear infections. Fortunately, these conditions are treatable through urgent care.

However, the virus can also develop into pneumonia, which is sometimes life-threatening. Other serious conditions include encephalitis, myocarditis, myositis, and multiple organ failure. 

While anyone can develop these complications, some people are at a higher risk of developing them than others. This includes people with diabetes, HIV disease, and cancer. 

Those with chronic conditions like heart failure or asthma can see their conditions worsen while sick with the flu.  

Complications can also affect pregnant women, children 5 and under, and adults who are 65 and older.   

What Are Symptoms & Treatments for the Flu?

Symptoms  

If you’re coming down with the flu, you might express any combination of the following symptoms: fever, chills, running or congested nose, body and headaches, a sore throat, and fatigue. 

Treatment 

The flu is often treated over the course of a few days. You’ll need bed rest and to replenish your system with fluids. Considering that aches are common with the virus, taking over-the-counter pain relievers can give you the comfort you need. 

Your doctor can also prescribe antiviral medications to fight the infection and shorten the duration of the illness.  

Prevention

There are habits you can adopt to decrease your odds of developing the virus. 

Keeping your distance will help protect you from others who are sick and protect others when you’re sick. If you find yourself coughing or sneezing, attempt to do so into your elbow or a tissue and not your hands. Germs can be transmitted through the items and people you have contact with.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth even if you’re feeling well. You can prevent obtaining and transmitting germs by frequently washing your hands with soap. If a sink is unavailable, carry an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with you when you’re going about your day.  

While at home, disinfect commonly used items and surfaces, especially when you or someone else is sick. 

Remaining physically active can also help prevent the illness. Include proper dieting, which can boost your immune system.

The best prevention method, however, is still immunization. The flu vaccine is updated almost every year to better combat the new strains that develop. Scheduling an immunization appointment at an urgent care facility will protect you during the 13-week flu season. Even if you wait longer into the winter, the vaccine will still protect you, especially if the flu lingers into April and May. 

 

If you’re experiencing the flu or flu symptoms, reach out to Urgent & Primary Care in the Albany, NY, area. With over 20 years of experience, their urgent care doctors are ready to help you. Taking both appointments and walk-ins, you’ll be given personalized and compassionate care in a state-of-the-art facility. For more information on their many services, including immunizations, visit their website. To schedule an appointment, call (518) 463-8262.