There are very few common illnesses that can make you feel quite as bad as the flu. Luckily, flu season occurs only once a year. But even one flu illness can be devastating for some patients.
“Flu” here means illness caused by influenza virus types A and B. This is the respiratory flu not the gastrointestinal flu. Classic symptoms of influenza A or B are aches, chills, headache, sore throat, nasal congestion, cough, pain behind the eyes, fever, tiredness, weakness, dizziness and decreased appetite. It seems your whole body is sick. The symptoms of respiratory flu typically last 10 to 14 days; however, some may be ill for up to three weeks.
If influenza is diagnosed early in the illness, an antiviral medication can be prescribed that may shorten the course of the illness and lessen the severity of the symptoms. The sooner these are started, the better the chance of improvement. Antivirals might also be prescribed to prevent influenza from spreading to an entire household. Fever reducers, pain relievers, decongestants, cough suppressants, rest and plenty of fluids will get you through the worst until you or your child feels well again.
What about prevention?
- Washing your hands regularly is a great start!
- Yearly flu shots are the most important step in protecting yourself against the flu. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, reducing the spread of respiratory illnesses, like flu, this fall and winter is more important than ever.
September and October are good times to get vaccinated. However, as long as flu viruses are circulating, vaccination should continue, even in January or later. HSHS Medical Group is now providing flu shots for established patients. Please call your HSHS Medical Group primary care office or use MyChart to schedule an appointment today.
Scheduling online in 3 easy steps:
- Click the button below or open your MyChart app.
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Click the MENU button.
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Choose "COVID-19/Influenza Vaccine."
Walk-in Flu Clinics
Taylorville Drive Thru (for patients and non-established patients*)
Saturday, October 2
Saturday, October 16
9 a.m. - 12 p.m.
HSHS Medical Group Multispecialty Care - Taylorville
1304 W. Burnett Dr. Taylorville, IL 62568
ph: 833-594-0336
Greenville (for established patients only)
Monday, October 4
Thursday, October 21
7 a.m. - 7 p.m.
HSHS Holy Family Health Center managed by HSHS Medical Group
201 Healthcare Dr., MOBC Greenville, IL 62246
ph: 618-664-1380
A limited number of vaccines are available. Regular-dose flu shots for ages 6 months and older and high-dose flu shots are available for ages 65 and older.
Masks are required.
*There will be a $20 charge for non-established patients. Cash or check only.