Influenza is coming to town

As flu season ramps up in Colorado, many of our patients at Homestead Direct Primary Care are asking about the current influenza symptoms, what treatments are available, and if this year’s flu shot is effective. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you stay informed and prepared.

Current Symptoms of Influenza

While flu symptoms can sometimes resemble a cold or even COVID-19, there are distinct differences. This year, the most common symptoms of influenza include:

• Sudden onset of fever or chills (often one of the earliest signs)

• Persistent cough (typically dry)

• Sore throat

• Muscle or body aches (more intense than with a common cold)

• Fatigue or extreme tiredness (may feel like "hitting a wall")

• Runny or stuffy nose

• Headache

• Occasional nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea (more common in children)

Symptoms usually appear 1-4 days after exposure to the virus. Unlike a cold, which develops slowly, flu symptoms often hit suddenly, leaving people feeling wiped out.

Treatment Options for Influenza

If you or a loved one develops flu symptoms, the key is to act quickly. Here are the most effective treatment options:

1. Antiviral Medications

• What They Do: Antiviral drugs (like oseltamivir/Tamiflu, zanamivir, and baloxavir/Xofluza) can shorten the length of illness and reduce the severity of symptoms if taken within 48 hours of symptom onset.

• Who Should Take Them: People at higher risk (like older adults, young children, pregnant women, and those with chronic health conditions) benefit most from antivirals.

2. Rest and Hydration

• Why It Matters: Your body needs energy to fight off the virus, so get plenty of rest. Staying hydrated prevents dehydration caused by fever, sweat, or vomiting.

3. Over-the-Counter Relief

• Options: Pain relievers (like acetaminophen or ibuprofen) help manage fever, muscle aches, and headaches. Decongestants and throat lozenges can ease nasal congestion and sore throats.

• Note: Avoid giving aspirin to children due to the risk of Reye’s syndrome.

4. When to Seek Medical Care

• Warning Signs: If you have trouble breathing, persistent chest pain, confusion, or severe dehydration (like not urinating), seek medical attention right away. Children, pregnant women, and older adults are more vulnerable to complications.

Does the Flu Shot Work This Year?

The effectiveness of the flu shot varies from year to year, depending on how well the strains in the vaccine match the circulating flu viruses. So far, this year’s flu shot appears to be a good match for the dominant strains, including both influenza A (H1N1 and H3N2) and influenza B.

How Well Does It Work?

• The flu shot doesn’t guarantee total immunity, but it significantly reduces the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and complications.

• People who get the flu after being vaccinated tend to have milder symptoms and recover more quickly.

• The CDC estimates that flu vaccines typically reduce the risk of illness by 40-60% when well-matched to the circulating strains.

How to Stay Ahead of the Flu

1. Get Vaccinated: It’s not too late to get your flu shot. Protection builds within 2 weeks.

2. Practice Good Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently, avoid touching your face, and clean high-touch surfaces.

3. Stay Home When Sick: To protect others, avoid work, school, or public areas if you’re feeling unwell.

If you have questions about flu prevention, treatment, or vaccination, reach out to Homestead Direct Primary Care. We’re here to help you protect your health and your family's health this flu season. Stay well, Colorado!