Flu (Influenza)

Get help when the flu has you down for the count

Our approach to flu care

Dealing with the flu can be a miserable experience. But together, we’ll knock it out as fast as possible.

We take a personalized approach designed around your health and specific situation for efficient and effective care.

Our primary care doctors, urgent care staff and online on-demand virtual care doctors are highly experienced with diagnosing and treating the flu. We're here to help.

Signs and symptoms of flu

Flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It usually lasts a week or two and feels worse and lasts longer than a cold. Symptoms can range from a mild cough and sore throat to more severe fever, body aches and fatigue.

Common flu symptoms include:

  • fever
  • body aches
  • headache
  • dry cough
  • sore throat
  • fatigue
  • loss of appetite
  • chills
  • nausea
  • vomiting (more common in children)
  • diarrhea (more common in children)

Most people recover from the flu within a few weeks, but some are at a higher risk of developing serious complications, such as pneumonia or bronchitis.

When to seek care for flu

If you experience any of these symptoms, it's important to stay home and rest. Contact your doctor if your symptoms are severe or you have any underlying health conditions.

You can help prevent the flu by getting the flu vaccine every year.

Our steps to a diagnosis

We understand how concerning it can be to think you might have the flu. That's why we've made the diagnosis process as simple and straightforward as possible:

  • We'll start by asking you about your symptoms and performing a physical exam.
  • We may also perform a test to confirm the presence of the flu virus.
  • We'll discuss the results of your exam and test with you and develop a treatment plan that's right for you.

Treatments

Our treatment approach is based on your individual symptoms and risks, so you can rest assured that you're getting the best possible care that's right for you.

Common treatments include:

  • Resting at home: This is often the best way to treat the flu. Get plenty of rest and fluids and avoid strenuous activity.
  • Prescription medication: There are several prescription medications that can help ease flu symptoms. These medications may include antiviral drugs, pain relievers and decongestants.
  • Treatment at a hospital: In some cases, hospitalization may be necessary. This is typically the case for people at high risk of developing complications from the flu, such as the elderly, the very young and people with chronic health conditions.

Meet our experts

Board-certified doctors supported by a compassionate team — all here for you.

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Why choose WellSpan for flu care?

We understand how important it is to get the right care when you're feeling under the weather. Our experienced team will work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that gets you feeling better fast.

Treatment options

We offer various treatment options, including antiviral medications, to reduce the severity and duration of your flu symptoms.

Care from the comfort of your couch

WellSpan On-Demand Virtual Care is available online, 24/7, so you can get the care you need without having to leave home.

Convenience and accessibility

We offer flu vaccines at various locations, including:

  • WellSpan Family Medicine offices
  • WellSpan Urgent Care clinics
  • WellSpan Pharmacy locations