Flu Season: What You Need To Know

As the weather cools and flu season approaches, it’s important to stay informed about what the flu is, how to protect yourself, and what to do if you get sick. The flu, short for influenza, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs. Unlike a common cold, the flu can come on suddenly and cause more severe symptoms such as fever, chills, body aches, fatigue, cough, sore throat, and headaches.

How to Prevent the Flu

Prevention is always the best defense when it comes to the flu. Here are some proven ways to reduce your risk:

• Get the flu vaccine: The annual flu shot is the most effective way to protect yourself and those around you.

• Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands regularly with soap and water and avoid touching your face.

• Cover your coughs and sneezes: Use a tissue or the inside of your elbow to prevent spreading germs.

• Keep your distance: Stay away from people who are sick, and if you’re feeling unwell, stay home to avoid spreading the virus.

• Boost your immune system: Get enough sleep, eat a balanced diet, and stay physically active.

Treating the Flu

If you do catch the flu, rest and hydration are essential. Over-the-counter medications can help ease symptoms like fever, congestion, or muscle aches. In some cases, doctors may prescribe antiviral medications, which work best when taken within the first 48 hours of symptoms starting. These can shorten the duration of the flu and lessen its severity.

When to Seek Medical Care

While many people recover from the flu at home, it can become serious, especially for young children, older adults, pregnant women, and those with chronic health conditions. Seek medical attention immediately if you experience:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath

• Chest pain or pressure

• Severe dehydration

• Confusion or sudden dizziness

• Symptoms that improve and then return with a high fever or worsening cough

Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. If you experience severe flu symptoms or are concerned about your health, please seek medical attention.

Ready when you need us 

Regardless of what type of medical situation you may be facing, Community First ER is here to help. There’s no need to make an appointment, and you won’t have to wait. Our board-certified physicians and nurses will always be ready to see you. We understand that emergencies aren’t always convenient, which is why we do everything we can to make your experience with us as hassle-free as possible. From the moment you arrive at Community First ER to the moment you leave us our compassionate and knowledgeable staff will take care of you or your family member appropriately. If your condition warrants transportation to a local hospital, we can easily arrange this using our ambulance and helipad services. Our 9,000 square foot facility includes an onsite lab, radiology, and imaging services and is equipped to provide adult, pediatric, and adolescent emergency and critical care. We strive to provide the most effective and most efficient medical care in a stress-free and comfortable environment. 

We are here to help  

At Community First ER, we are committed to providing you the best possible care now and always. With adult and pediatric emergency care available, we have a team of board-certified medical and surgical specialists we consult to help manage our patients and their medical emergencies. We form relationships with local doctors to ensure that our patients have access to the best specialists for their individual needs. You can call ahead and discuss your symptoms at any time. 

We are Community First Emergency Room – committed to putting your community, health, and YOU FIRST, every day.

If you are a loved one experiencing an urgent or emergency medical issue, please contact us right away at 281-343-3134. 

About Community First ER 

Emergency health care is a critical resource. Our commitment is to provide a personal, transparent, and concierge-driven emergency health care experience to our community members. Locally owned and operated by health care providers and partners we trust, we strive to support and create meaningful relationships with those around us. We exist to put your health and wellness first. For more information, visit our website at https://communityfirster.com/ and engage with us on social media!