Flu Facts: What are the Symptoms of Flu?

Generally, the symptoms of flu can include fever, feeling a cough, sore throat, runny nose, body aches, fatigue, and headaches. In fact, The symptoms of a cold and flu are similar, and it is important to see a doctor within the first few days of illness to help tell the difference by a physical exam and special tests. In general, the flu is usually worse than the common cold with symptoms more intense. Colds are usually milder than the flu and do not result in serious health problems such as pneumonia, bacterial infections or hospitalizations. Additionally, flu can be associated with more serious complications.

Flu Facts: What’s new this flu season? 2021-2022

Every year the WHO with the help of the CDC gets together and selects which strains they predict will be a part of the coming season. At this time, flu vaccines have four strains of flu included for the 2021-2022 season. All four of the vaccine viruses will be grown in cells not eggs this year. It is recommended to start getting the flu shot at the beginning of the season which is end of October. Please make your doctor aware if you have had adverse reactions or egg allergies in your history to make the most appropriate decision regarding your care.

New recommendations this year as per the CDC for children 6 to 35 months in age for receiving Fluzone. Conversely, old recommendations for Fluzone suggested that children in this age group to receive 0.25 milliliters of this dose. New recommendations state that children 6 to 35 months of age may now receive either 0.25 or 0.5 milliliters per dose of Fluzone. No preference has been given to dose volume as per the CDC for this age group. All person 36 months and older shoulder receive 0.5 milliliters per dose.  

FDA expanded the indication for Afluria Quadrivalent, a quadrivalent inactivated influenza vaccine.  Afluria is now licensed for children 6 to 35 months of age to receive 0.25 milliliters

What should I do to protect myself from flu this season?

In addition to everyday preventative actions like staying washing hands, covering your mouth with a cough and staying away from sick people it is important to get your flu shot. If you are sick from the flu it is important to stay home from work or school to prevent its spread. There are also prescription medications called antiviral drugs that your doctor can prescribe to treat and help prevent from the flu. 

Flu Facts: Where can I get a flu vaccine?

At our urgent cares we provide the most up to date vaccines for all children, pregnant and adults for the coming season. Please come in to discuss if you have further questions.

Our Urgent Care Centers are open 7 days a week with convenient hours. We are committed to providing quality and professional urgent medical care to our community on a regular basis. Our center is clean, safe and nationally accredited by the UCA.

Authors:
Rupal Bhingradia, MD FAAFP
Jessica Levatino, MD


Excel Urgent Care & Affiliates 
Author: Excel Urgent Care
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