Flu (Influenza)

Dealing with Flu A, Flu B, or the latest strain — we’re here to help you feel better.
Learn about flu symptoms, how to treat them, and when to seek help.

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Person wearing a yellow sweater, blowing their nose while sitting on the couch.

What is the flu?

The flu is a viral infection that causes symptoms similar to a cold but with more severity. To prevent serious complications, such as pneumonia, it’s important to seek care as soon as possible when you suspect you may have the flu.

Flu symptoms can come in a hurry. If you're feeling wiped out, quick treatment can help you recover faster, reducing the risk of spreading it to others. 

Flu Symptoms

What to look for when your cold feels worse than usual.

Runny Nose & Sore Throat

That nonstop drip and raw throat is often your body’s first red flag of an oncoming flu virus.

Fever & Chills

A sudden spike in body temperature or body shivers can be a sign that your immune system fighting off the flu.

Cough or Chest Discomfort

Inflamed airways or a tight chest could mean the flu virus is settling into your system.

Headache or Body Aches & Pains

Head pounding & body aches are a classic sign your immune system is under viral attack.

Fatigue or Weakness for up to 2-3 Weeks

Total exhaustion can hit early and hard, lasting well beyond the first few days of your illness.

Flu Treatment Must-Knows

Winning the battle against the flu takes more than just chicken soup, (but “soup” did make our list). Try these solutions and if flu symptoms have not improved in two weeks, please see your doctor.

Get Plenty of Rest

Help your immune system do its work. Get lots of sleep and reduce daytime activity. Even a short nap or quiet time on the couch can make a difference.

Stay Hydrated

Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration and ease a sore throat. Water, herbal teas, and soups are good options. Avoid caffeinated drinks if possible.

Heat Can Help

When the flu hits, body aches can be relentless. Hot compresses or heat packs can help ease sore muscle pain and give you a bit of relief while you rest.

Need a Flu Diagnosis or Treatment?

If you suspect you have the flu and would like help diagnosing and treating your symptoms, check in online or walk in to a WellNow location nearest you.

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Doctor giving a child a checkup with a parent watching in the background.

When to See a Doctor

Your fever improves, but suddenly gets worse
Your flu symptoms last longer than 2 weeks
You have concentrated pain in one area
You develop thick mucus & persistent cough
You are in a high-risk group for complications

Who’s Most at Risk for the Flu?

If you’re at a higher risk of complications and get the flu, seek medical care right away. Prescription anti-viral flu treatment can help protect you, but it needs to be taken quickly.

Groups that face a higher risk of serious flu illness:

Those 65 years and older
People with chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes or asthma
People who are pregnant or up to 2 weeks postpartum
Nursing home residents
Children 5 years or younger (under 2 years has the highest risk)

Doctor giving a patient a swab test up their nose.

Flu Testing at WellNow

WellNow Urgent Care can test for the flu, along with strep throat, COVID-19 and a variety of other illnesses.

Flu tests are processed onsite in about 15 minutes
Get results during your visit & get help right away
Flu testing is available for all ages including children

Flu FAQs

How can I protect myself and others from the flu?

To prevent exposure to influenza A and B, it’s important to wash your hands often and thoroughly. Clean and sanitize frequently-touched surfaces and stay home when you’re sick.

Getting vaccinated is the best way to protect yourself and the people in your life from the flu. Flu vaccines are designed to protect against the two variants of influenza A and the two subtypes of influenza B that are predicted to be most active that season. Even if you’ve had the flu recently, a flu vaccine can help protect you from the other types of flu in circulation.

Can a medical provider help diagnose and treat Flu A and Flu B?

Yes! There is flu testing that can help identify flu type and treatment for each. Causes and symptoms for Flu A vs Flu B can vary. We are here to help you understand and manage your illness.

What are the differences between Flu A and Flu B?

Flu A spreads faster, can cause big outbreaks (like flu season) and can also infect animals — H1N1 Swine Flu is a good example. Flu B spreads more slowly and usually affects just humans. Flu B is also often milder than Flu A.
Infection with influenza A happens more frequently near the beginning of the flu season, and usually lasts for 1-2 weeks. Flu B, on the other hand, tends to be more common near the end of the flu season.
Influenza A is more likely to cause severe symptoms. The chance of complications and hospitalization is higher with influenza A, but is possible with both types of flu.
For a more in-depth look, visit our Flu A vs Flu B resource.