If you’re dealing with flu symptoms and you just don’t have the time for a drawn-out recovery, Sterling Medical Center in Sterling Heights, Michigan, has you covered. From flu testing and vaccinations to medication that can help shorten the duration and lessen the severity of your symptoms, you can get flu help by scheduling your appointment online or by phone today.
Flu Q & A
Who needs to get flu vaccinations?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone six months and older get a flu vaccination every year. Flu vaccination is one of the simplest and most effective ways to avoid a potentially deadly illness, and it’s especially crucial for children, the elderly, or for anyone who has a weak immune system.
Flu vaccination is a quick shot that takes a few minutes of your time, and your Sterling Medical Center care provider can add flu vaccination to your physical exam or any other office visit depending on your needs.
What are the most common flu symptoms?
Flu symptoms typically include some or all of the following.
- Fever higher than 100.4℉
- Body aches and pains
- Hot-and-cold feelings caused by chills and body sweats
- Cough
- Congestion
- Sore throat
The flu can sometimes mimic other illnesses like colds or bronchitis, so flu testing is usually the first step when you come to Sterling Medical Center for treatment.
How does flu testing work?
If you have flu symptoms, the Sterling Medical Center team will discuss your symptoms and perform a physical exam. They may also perform simple flu testing to verify that it's the flu rather than another condition with similar symptoms, such as bronchitis.
The most common flu test, the rapid flu test, involves a quick swab of either your nose or throat. The rapid flu test gives you results in just 15 minutes.
What is the treatment for the flu?
The treatment for flu can vary depending on how severe your symptoms are. For most cases of flu, symptom management is enough. This usually means getting lots of rest and drinking enough fluid. Your care provider may also recommend over-the-counter pain relievers and other medicine for symptom relief.
The Sterling Medical Center team might also prescribe medication. While antibiotics are highly effective for bacterial infections, the flu is a viral infection, so antibiotics won't work on it. But, antiviral medications, such as Tamiflu®, may help reduce the duration of your flu if you start taking them soon after your symptoms begin.
To get flu vaccinations, testing, and treatment, call Sterling Medical Center or use the online scheduler to book your appointment today.