What to do if you get the flu

 Flu season is here—time to take preventive measures like getting a flu shot, washing your hands regularly, covering your cough, and staying away from people who are sick. If the flu strikes and you need help in a hurry, come to the ER at United.

 Flu occurs in the United States most often in the fall and winter and commonly peaks in February. Flu-like symptoms in summer months are usually due to other viruses.

 The flu causes mild to severe illness and can lead to serious illness and death. Some people, such as older people, young kids, and people with certain health conditions (like asthma, diabetes, or heart disease), are at high risk for serious flu complications.

 People with flu often have high fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, fatigue (tiredness), headache, and sometimes nasal congestion. If you or someone you know has these symptoms and they are severe, contact your doctor, nurse, or clinic as soon as possible. The best way to tell if you have flu is for a health care provider to swab your throat and have a lab confirm the diagnosis.

 For more information on the flu, or to find out where to get vaccinated, click here.