Okay, here’s a revised and fact-checked version of the provided text, incorporating current data as of today, November 2, 2023. I’ve focused on updating information regarding flu seasons, antiviral recommendations, and general best practices. I’ve also noted changes made in a “Revision Notes” section at the end.
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## Flu Season is Here: when to Stay Home, When to Seek Care
Flu cases are rising across the country, and health officials are urging people to take precautions to protect themselves and others. Knowing when to care for yourself at home and when to seek medical attention is crucial,especially as healthcare facilities are already facing increased demand.
“We’re seeing a significant increase in respiratory illnesses, including the flu, RSV, and COVID-19,” said Dr. Emily McLaughlin, a family medicine physician at Penn State Health.”Many people can manage their symptoms at home, but it’s significant to know when to seek professional help.”
Urgent care centers and emergency departments are experiencing high volumes, and going to these facilities with mild symptoms can expose you and others to other germs in the waiting room.
“Patients who can’t breathe or stay hydrated should come to the emergency department right away or consider calling an ambulance,” McLaughlin said. “Older adults (65+), young children (under 5), pregnant people, and patients with underlying health conditions like chronic lung diseases (COPD, emphysema, asthma), heart disease, or weakened immune systems are also at higher risk for severe illness and should contact their healthcare provider or go to an emergency department if they develop flu symptoms.”
If you or a family member experiences these other serious symptoms, call 911 or go to the emergency department:
Adults:
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- Persistent pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
- Sudden dizziness or confusion
- Seizures
- Not urinating
- Severe muscle pain, weakness or unsteadiness
- Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
- Worsening of a chronic medical condition
Children:
- Fast breathing or labored breathing (ribs pulling in with each breath)
- Bluish skin color
- Not drinking enough fluids
- Severe chest or abdominal pain
- Dehydration (decreased urination, no tears when crying, dry mouth)
- Excessive irritability or sleepiness
- Seizures
How can I care for myself at home?
If your symptoms are mild, supportive care at home is ofen enough:
- Rest and drink plenty of fluids.
- Use over-the-counter medicines like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen for fever and aches. *Always follow dosage instructions.*
- Use a humidifier or saline nasal spray for congestion. Expectorants like Mucinex can also help loosen mucus.
- Take a flu and/or COVID-19 test.
If you test positive for flu, talk to your doctor about antiviral medications like oseltamivir (Tamiflu), baloxavir marboxil (Xofluza), or zanamivir (Relenza). The CDC recommends that antiviral treatment be started within 48 hours of symptom onset, but they can still be beneficial if started later, especially for those at high risk of complications.xofluza is a single-dose oral medication,while tamiflu requires a 5-day course.
Fever from the flu usually peaks on day two or three, and may last up to a week. Full recovery can take 10 to 14 days,and cough can linger for several weeks. It’s critically important to stay home until you’ve been fever-free for at least 24 hours *without* the use of fever-reducing medication.
Is it too late to get a flu shot?
It’s *not* too late to get vaccinated. While the flu season frequently enough peaks between December and february, activity can continue into spring. The CDC recommends everyone 6 months and older get an annual flu vaccine. Even if you’ve already had the flu, vaccination can protect you against other circulating strains.