Influenza update

Flu season seems it is going to be late this year. It just now seems to be really surfacing even though a few cases were seen around the holiday time. We have seen several cases in the clinic over the past week or so. If you have symptoms that might be related to "the flu" (influenza), it is important to be seen as soon as possible. If seen within the first 48 hours of symptoms, medication can be given that may lessen the symptoms and the duration of the illness. If you are in contact with someone who has documented influenza, you should also be seen and started on prophylactic (preventative) doses of the medication to help keep from contracting the illness.

Influenza Symptoms

Influenza (also known as the flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by flu viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. The flu is different from a cold. The flu usually comes on suddenly and may include these symptoms:

Fever (usually high)
Headache
Extreme tiredness
Dry cough
Sore throat
Runny or stuffy nose
Muscle aches
Stomach symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, also can occur but are more common in children than adults

If you exhibit any of these symptoms, please call or come on in so you can be tested and begun on the appropriate therapy. If you have any question, please feel free to call the clinic. We want to help keep you healthy or if you do become ill, get you back to health as soon as possible.