If you have seasonal flu and/or COVID-19 symptoms, Premier Healthcare offers testing for both of these conditions.  If you suspect that you may have the flu or COVID, please call the office for an appointment or utilize the after-hours immediate care clinic to be seen by a provider.  The providers will determine if testing is needed and the test(s) will then be performed in the clinic.  We perform rapid flu and COVID tests, so the results will be available while you wait.

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Flu | COVID Q & A

 

What are Flu and COVID-19?

  Influenza is a common viral infection that often attacks the lungs, nose and throat.  Young children, older adults, pregnant women, and those with chronic diseases or weak immune systems are at high risk for contracting the flu each year.  The virus usually goes away on its own in 5-10 days, however, there are some prescription anti-viral medications that can help you shed the virus more quickly.

COVID-19 is also a viral infection that can cause mild to severe symptoms. As with the flu, those in more vulnerable populations (children, elderly, and those with chronic illnesses) are at a higher risk of infection and severe complications.

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What are the symptoms of flu and COVID?

 Common flu symptoms include:

• fever

• cough (dry or productive of mucus)

• Fatigue

• Muscle/body aches

• Congestion/runny nose

• Loss of appetite

• Chills/sweats

• Chest pressure

• Sore throat

• Swollen lymph nodes

• Headache

• Nausea/vomiting

 COVID symptoms may include:

• Fever/chills

• Cough

• headache

• Shortness of breath

• Fatigue

• Muscle/body aches

• New loss of taste or smell

• Congestion/runny nose

• Nausea/vomiting/diarrhea

• Pain or pressure in the chest

• Confusion

• Bluish lips/face

 Call for an appointment or utilize our after-hours clinic if you are experiencing any of these symptoms.  

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What are the risk factors for Flu and COVID?

  Anyone can become infected with either of these viruses, however, those in more vulnerable populations are at higher risk of infection and complications from these illnesses.

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How are Flu and COVID diagnosed?

 Both strains of flu (A and B) can be diagnosed with a rapid flu test.  The test involves inserting a small swab into the nostrils and testing the sample for the virus. 

COVID-19 is diagnosed through both a rapid test (takes around 15 minutes) that includes swabbing the nasal passages.  The rapid test uses a sample of mucus from the nose/throat that is then analyzed in the clinic and results can be given to the patient in about 15 minutes.  

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How are Flu and COVID treated?

  Both viruses are self-limiting and will usually run their course and resolve on their own in 5-10 days.  There are currently two anti-viral medications approved for the treatment of flu that can help shed the virus and help you feel better faster.  However, these medications need to be started within the first 48 hours of symptoms to be effective.  

There is currently no approved treatment for COVID-19 symptoms, but your provider can suggest some over-the-counter medications that may help ease the symptoms.  For either virus, it is imperative that you go to the nearest Emergency Room for further medical attention if you begin having any severe symptoms such as breathing difficulty, severe chest pain, dehydration, high fever, etc.  Please feel free to call us at Premier Healthcare for any questions about testing or when/where to seek care for either of these illnesses.