12/29/2025
Flu Survival Guide For Adults--
I hope you don't come down with it, but I put together some information for my patients just in case.
Here's What You NEED To Know:
Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory viral illness characterized by cough, fever, chills, body aches, fatigue and sometimes vomiting and diarrhea. The onset is usually sudden.
Influenza (flu) is a clinical diagnosis. You do not need a positive flu test to be diagnosed with the flu. If you wish to be tested, there are rapid tests available over-the-counter at most pharmacies. The treatment for flu does not change based on a rapid test.
Going to an urgent care center is not necessary to diagnose flu. If you don't walk in to an urgent care with the flu, you may walk out with it! Sitting in a waiting room with other sick individuals is not a good idea. A safer way to get care for flu is to use Telehealth.
This year's flu shot was not a good match for the circulating strain of Influenza A--called H3N2 Subclade K. It does not confer the immunity we typically see during flu season, though it can still lessen the severity of the flu.
Don't take unnecessary risks while flu activity is high. Stay away from sick people and avoid crowds until flu spread settles down.
Flu can live on surfaces for up to 48 hours. Wipe down "high touch" areas like counters, door k***s, phones with disinfectant. Use hand sanitizer when you are out and about and avoid standing too close to others at stores and in lines.
IF YOU COME DOWN WITH THE FLU:
Fever control is very important. Don't wait to "prove" your temperature is elevated before you take anything. It can take a miserable hour of fever, sweats and chills to get your temp back down to normal. Don't get on that train. Control fever proactively from the get-go. If you have no allergies or contraindications --take ibuprofen 400-600 mg every 6 hours (with a little food) for 3 days. Take it by the clock for 3 days, then as needed after that.
You may take a dose of Tylenol (acetaminophen) 650 mg in between ibuprofen doses for persistent fever as needed.
Stay hydrated. Get at least 64 ounces of fluids every day. You may not have an appetite, but you MUST get fluids. Aim to keep your urine a light yellow color.
Stay away from others until you are fever free for 48 hours--especially those most vulnerable to flu--the elderly, infants and the immunocompromised.
Take 2 hot steamy showers daily to help with congestion/nasal symptoms. If you don't have high blood pressure, pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) is helpful. Cough drops, over-the-counter cough medicines and humidifiers can also help.
Influenza (flu) is a virus. Anti-viral medication (such as Tamiflu or Xofluza) are prescription medications designed to treat viruses, not bacteria. They interfere with the ability of the virus to function and multiply. Anti-virals help decrease the severity and duration of the illness. They work best when started within 48 hours of symptom onset or after known exposure to an individual with flu. High risk individuals can benefit from antivirals at any time.
For more severe symptoms, prescription cough medications can be helpful.
Isolate/stay home for 5-7 days and at least 48 hours fever-free.
Seek emergency care if you experience difficulty breathing, chest pain, coughing up blood, you are unable to keep down fluids, experience confusion or as needed.
We can see you by telemedicine for medications, work notes, etc.
We are here if you need us!
Best,
Robyn Holland, PA-C
You can make a rapid appointment on our website:
No Hassle, Just Great Care Across Maryland and Florida Telehealth Online Or By Phone!
