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I have the flu, when should I seek care?

December 08, 2022
Health & Wellness

As flu activity reaches its highest levels in nearly a decade, it is important to take steps to prevent getting or spreading the illness. These include recognizing the signs and symptoms, and knowing when to go to the emergency department or seek care from another medical professional.

The flu shot is recommended for anyone over the age of six months, including pregnant women. This year’s flu shot has nearly 50 percent efficacy against hospitalization from the major strain of the flu, according to the CDC.

UHS offers flu shots by appointment. Click here to schedule a flu shot online now.

You can avoid spreading germs by washing your hands, covering your mouth when you cough and staying home from work, school or other activities if you are not well.

If you have a non-emergency illness, first seek help with your primary care physician or urgent care. Common flu symptoms include fever/chills, cough, sore throat, runny nose, headache or body ache, fatigue or vomiting/diarrhea. If you have any emergency warning signs of flu, or flu-related complications, please go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

The CDC identifies these flu emergency warning signs:

For adults:

  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
  • Chest pain or abdominal pain
  • Sudden dizziness
  • Confusion
  • Severe or persistent vomiting
  • Flu-like symptoms that improve but then return with fever and worse cough
  • Swelling in the mouth or throat
  • Weakness

For children:

  • Fast breathing or trouble breathing
  • Bluish skin color
  • Not drinking enough fluids
  • Not waking up or not interacting
  • Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held
  • Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough
  • Fever with a rash

In addition to the signs above, seek medical attention for an infant who shows any of these signs:

  • Not able to eat
  • Trouble breathing
  • No tears when crying
  • Significantly fewer wet diapers than normal

Visit cdc.gov/flu to learn more about Influenza prevention and treatment.