We’re here to help you navigate flu season with effective treatment options. From flu testing to flu shots and symptom management, our primary care providers offer comprehensive care to get you back to feeling your best.
What is the Flu?
The flu, or influenza, is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. While many cases are mild, the flu can lead to serious complications, especially for young children, seniors, and individuals with certain health conditions.
Types of Flu
There are four types of flu viruses. Influenza A and Influenza B are the most common causes of seasonal flu. and most people who have the flu are infected with the type A virus.
Influenza C usually leads to milder symptoms and isn’t seasonal, while Influenza D primarily affects animals and isn’t known to cause illness in humans.
What Are Flu Symptoms
Flu symptoms can appear suddenly and may include:
- Fever and chills
- Body aches
- Sore throat
- Cough
- Headache
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Fatigue or feeling run-down
- Occasional vomiting or diarrhea (more common in children)
When is the Flu Season
Flu season typically spans October through May, with cases peaking from December to February. During these months, the virus spreads more easily due to colder weather and indoor gatherings, so it’s important to stay vigilant about prevention and recognize symptoms early.
How to Test for Flu
Flu testing can confirm whether your symptoms are from the flu virus or another illness. Testing usually involves a quick swab of your nose or throat. The sample is then sent to a lab for testing using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test PCR test.
Where Can I Get a Flu Test?
CLS Health offers flu testing at our clinics throughout Greater Houston. Our friendly, knowledgeable providers ensure you receive accurate results and the best care for your health.
When to Get a Flu Shot
Annual Flu Shots are one of the best ways to protect against seasonal flu. The vaccine is updated each year to match the most common strains. For peak protection, it’s best to get your flu shot by late October, although getting vaccinated anytime during flu season can still provide important protection.
Visit our vaccines and immunizations page to learn more about flu shots and other vaccines available at CLS Health.
Our Flu Treatments
Most people with the flu can recover at home with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications for symptom relief. For certain cases, antiviral medications may help reduce the severity and duration of illness.
- Antiviral Medications: Flu antivirals such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu®), zanamivir (Relenza®), peramivir (Rapivab®), and baloxavir marboxil (Xofluza®) can shorten flu symptoms and prevent severe complications. These are especially helpful if started within 48 hours of symptom onset. Talk to your primary care provider to see if an antiviral is right for you.
- Over-the-Counter Relief: Medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help reduce fever and body aches. Decongestants, throat lozenges, and cough suppressants may also provide symptom relief. Always check with your healthcare provider if you have any questions about which medications to take.
FAQs
The flu typically lasts 5 to 7 days, but some symptoms like fatigue and cough can persist for up to two weeks. Rest and supportive care can help shorten recovery time.
You’re usually contagious from about a day before symptoms start to a week after they begin. Children and individuals with weakened immune systems may spread the virus for a longer period.
Influenza A tends to be more severe and is more likely to cause widespread outbreaks. Influenza B can still cause significant illness, but it typically results in milder cases.
The flu and the common cold share many symptoms, but flu symptoms tend to be more intense and appear suddenly. Colds often progress more gradually and are less likely to cause fever or body aches.
No, the flu shot cannot cause the flu. The vaccine is made from inactivated (dead) virus or, in some cases, a small protein from the virus, so it can’t infect you. Mild side effects like soreness or a low-grade fever are possible but short-lived.
