The University of Alabama at Birmingham

10/16/2024 | News release | Distributed by Public on 10/16/2024 08:46

Flu season is here: Proactive tips for a health season

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Graphic by: Jody PotterAs flu season ramps up, health care systems across the country are bracing for an influx of patients with common illnesses. To ease the strain on health care workers and ensure the right care is received, it is essential to understand the key differences between the flu, COVID-19, and the common cold.

Prevention and Treatment

To prevent the flu or minimize its symptoms, get vaccinated and practice good hygiene. For COVID-19, the flu and the common cold, rest, hydration and over-the-counter medications can help manage symptoms.

"It is very important for everybody to think about prevention and staying stronger together," said Rachael Lee, M.D., University of Alabama at Birmingham chief health care epidemiologist. "That is our goal for this year. One of the ways to do that is vaccines."

Lee says there is a specific time that she typically recommends getting these vaccines, and that is right at the beginning of the respiratory season.

Key Differences:
• COVID-19: variety of symptoms, from mild to severe, including fever, sore throat, headache and sometimes shortness of breath
• Flu: sudden onset, often with fever, muscle aches and cough, and typically lasts about a week
• Common Cold: gradual onset, mild symptoms and no fever
• Allergies: no fever, runny or stuffy nose, and often triggered by seasonal factors

"Right now is actually a great time," she said. "The antibodies that we produce from those vaccines should protect us throughout the respiratory virus season.

Convenient Care Options

UAB eMedicine offers two convenient ways to get diagnosed and treated for common illnesses like colds, flu and sinus infections from the comfort of your home:

  • Online Questionnaire: Complete a form for $25 to receive a diagnosis and treatment plan within an hour (during business hours).
  • Urgent Care Video Visit: Talk to a doctor face to face for $59 with a wait time of under 10 minutes. Prescriptions can be sent electronically.

By understanding the differences between these illnesses and utilizing convenient health care options, proactive steps can be taken to protect one's health and support the health care system during this busy season.