Preparing For Cold & Flu Season: Tips From Pelican Urgent Care
Oct 01, 2024 Medical
As the weather cools down and the days get shorter, cold and flu season approaches. At Pelican Urgent Care, we are here to help you and your family stay healthy and prepared. Here are some key tips to help you get ready for the season ahead:
1. Get Your Flu Shot
The flu vaccine is one of the best defenses against the flu. It reduces the severity of symptoms and the likelihood of getting sick. Make sure to schedule your flu shot early, as it takes about two weeks for your body to develop immunity. Pelican Urgent Care offers flu shots with no appointment necessary, so stop by any of our locations today!
2. Practice Good Hygiene
Handwashing is a simple yet effective way to prevent the spread of germs. Be sure to wash your hands frequently, especially after coughing, sneezing, or touching shared surfaces. Carry hand sanitizer for those times when soap and water aren’t available.
Cover Your Coughs and Sneezes: Use a tissue or your elbow to cover your mouth and nose, preventing germs from spreading through the air.
Avoid Touching Your Face: Viruses can enter your body through your eyes, nose, or mouth, so try to avoid touching your face, especially when in public.
3. Boost Your Immune System
A healthy immune system is your body’s best defense against illness. Here are a few ways to support your immune health:
Stay Active: Regular exercise can help keep your immune system strong.
Eat Nutritious Foods: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can provide essential vitamins and minerals.
Get Plenty of Rest: Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep each night to allow your body to recover and fend off infections.
4. Know the Symptoms
Cold and flu symptoms can be similar, but understanding the differences can help you seek appropriate care. Common flu symptoms include fever, body aches, fatigue, and a cough. Cold symptoms tend to be milder and include a runny nose, sneezing, and a sore throat. If you’re unsure of what you’re experiencing, Pelican Urgent Care is here to provide quick and accurate diagnoses.
5. When to Seek Care
If you or a family member experience severe flu symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, persistent fever, or confusion, it is important to seek medical attention immediately. Pelican Urgent Care is open seven days a week to provide the care you need, whether it is a simple cold, flu symptoms, or something more serious.
6. Stay Home When Sick
If you are feeling under the weather, the best thing you can do for yourself and others is to stay home and rest. This helps prevent the spread of illness and allows you to recover more quickly.
At Pelican Urgent Care, we’re committed to keeping our community healthy during cold and flu season. Whether you need a flu shot, quick treatment for symptoms, or advice on how to stay healthy, we’re here to help. Stay safe, stay healthy, and don’t hesitate to visit us if you need care this season!
Contact us today to schedule your flu shot or walk in at your convenience.