Is it already the Influenza (Flu) season?

Flu season is here in Illinois. Influenza, commonly called the flu, is a viral respiratory infection that affects the throat, airways, and lungs. It spreads easily from person to person through coughs, sneezes, and close contact. Knowing how to recognize symptoms early and when to seek care can help shorten recovery time and prevent complications.

Flu may cause rapid onset of:

• Fever over 100.4°F (38°C)
• Chills
• Body aches
• Headache
• Cough
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Sore throat Tiredness
• Throwing up

How Does the Flu Differ From the Common Cold?

Flu and the common cold are very similar, but the flu is like the common cold on steroids. Even in a healthy adult, influenza can become life-threatening due to various complications such as:

• Pneumonia
• Bronchitis
• Sinusitis
• Heart problems

A cold, on the other hand, tends to be milder and less likely to cause serious complications. Simply put, when you have the flu, you will feel much worse. For most individuals, the flu symptoms start to disappear in about five to seven days after illness onset.

How to prevent or fight the Flu?

• Keep your hands away from your nose, eyes, and mouth
• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 15 seconds, especially after coughing or sneezing. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers also work to kill the virus.
• Do not get too close (kissing, hugging) to people who are sick.
• Do not share cups, food, drinks, or silverware with anyone who is sick.
• Get a flu shot each year.
• If you think that you may have flu call your health care provider to inquire about early intervention.

The Bottom Line

Feeling under the weather? Vitality Urgent Care in Buffalo Grove and Lake Zurich offers same-day flu testing and treatment guidance seven days a week. Walk in or book online for fast, compassionate care.

Vitality Urgent Care provides same-day flu testing and medical evaluation for adults and children in Buffalo Grove and Lake Zurich. Walk-ins are welcome every day, or patients can book online for added convenience.
Vitality Urgent Care — trusted local providers offering fast, compassionate care when you need it most.
📍 56 W Dundee Rd, Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
📍 480 S Rand Rd, Lake Zurich, IL 60047
Open Mon–Fri 8 AM–8 PM | Sat–Sun 8 AM–4 PM