The flu season is upon us and according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Health departments nationwide, this year’s flu season may prove to be one of the worst. According to the CDC every year 5-20% of the US population gets the flu. More than 200,000 people are hospitalized and more than 36,000 people die from the flu. Emergency rooms nationwide are being flooded with people presenting with flu symptoms. Here are some signs and symptoms that require you get IMMEDIATE MEDICAL CARE.
Children:
- High or prolonged fever
- Fast, rapid breathing or trouble breathing
- Bluish skin color
- Confusion, seizures, irritability
- Dehydration – not drinking enough fluids
- Worsening of underlying medical problems : e.g. diabetes, asthma, heart problems
Adults:
- High or prolonged fever
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Pain or pressure in chest
- Near fainting or fainting
- Confusion, changes in consciousness
- Severe or continued vomiting
For most healthy people flu symptoms will resolve in 3-7 days. However, If the flu-like symptoms completely resolve but then come back and now you or your loved one has a fever and/or cough again go seek medical attention.
Wishing you good health,
Dr. V