Flu Season This Year: Flu Vaccines, Types of Flu & Flu Symptoms

Think you have the flu?
UH has options to get you the care you need.

With flu season in full swing, the number of flu cases and people seeking medical care for the flu or flu-like illnesses across the United States is on the increase, and we are starting to see this in Ohio.

When and Where to Get a Flu Shot

If you haven’t gotten your flu vaccine, it’s not too late – flu season will last until the end of March and cases occur as late as May. This year’s seasonal flu shot is targeted at the types of flu that are the most common right now, as well as two other strains in circulation.

How long will it take to be protected after getting the flu vaccine? About two weeks. Some people who get the flu vaccine still get sick, but studies have shown that these people will have a less severe illness. And myth alert: You cannot get the flu from a flu vaccine.

To get the flu shot, contact your UH primary care physician, or, if you don’t have one, find a UH doctor online from the region’s largest primary care network.

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What to Do If You Have the Flu

Most people with the flu should rest at home and do not need treatment for flu. You can take over-the-counter flu medicine for symptom relief.

If you are in the group that is more likely to have complication from the flu (very young, over 55, pregnant or have chronic medical problems), your doctor may prescribe flu medicine called antiviral drugs for flu treatment. Antiviral drugs can make the flu milder, shorten the illness and may also prevent serious complications. However, you need to take the drug within 48 hours after symptoms appear. If you are in the group above, contact your provider or go to an urgent care to receive treatment for the flu.

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Flu or Cold?

Those who have the flu will often feel some or all the symptoms related to the illness. But not everyone with the flu will have a fever. If you aren't sure whether or not you have flu-like symptoms, check out our guide on flu symptoms vs. cold symptoms.

Cold vs. Viral Gastroenteritis vs. Flu

Because the flu, viral gastroenteritis and the common cold often have similar symptoms, it can be difficult to tell the difference. Keep in mind that you'll usually have to visit a doctor within the first few days of your illness to determine whether or not you have the flu. In the meantime, it's good to have a basic understanding of some of the most common symptoms related to each illness and how to tell the difference between them.

Think You Have The Flu? It Just Might Be Viral Gastroenteritis

If you're experiencing nausea, vomiting, chills or watery diarrhea, you may have viral gastroenteritis. This illness causes inflammation, swelling and irritation of the inner lining of the gastrointestinal tract. While often referred to as the "stomach flu," the seasonal flu virus does not actually cause viral gastroenteritis.

A common illness that's often mistaken for the flu, viral gastroenteritis typically lasts only a few days and doesn't usually require treatment. Due to the loss of fluids from diarrhea and vomiting, dehydration is usually the biggest concern. So, be sure to drink plenty of fluids. Read up on the full symptoms and causes of viral gastroenteritis to learn more.

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When to See the Doctor for the Flu

Do not go to the emergency room if you are only mildly ill. But do go if you experience these emergency warning signs: