Do You Need Antibiotics for Influenza?
No, you do not need antibiotics for influenza (the flu). Influenza is a viral infection, and antibiotics are designed exclusively to kill bacteria. Taking antibiotics for a virus will not cure the illness, will not help you feel better, and will not prevent others from catching it. At Sahara West Urgent Care, we emphasize that […]
What Foods Should I Avoid When I Have the Flu?
When you have the influenza virus, avoiding certain foods is crucial to prevent dehydration and reduce stress on your digestive system. You should primarily avoid highly processed sugars, caffeinated beverages, alcohol, and greasy or fried foods. These items can spike inflammation, worsen nausea, and lead to fluid loss, which may prolong your recovery time. While […]
How Long Are You Contagious With the Flu?
You are typically contagious with influenza from one day before symptoms appear until about five to seven days after your symptoms begin. You are most infectious during the first three to four days of the illness. However, certain groups, including young children, older adults, and individuals with weakened immune systems, may remain contagious for 10 […]
How to Flush Out Flu Faster?
The fastest way to recover from the flu is a combination of immediate self-care and, in many cases, professional medical intervention. While the flu is a virus and must run its course, certain treatments can significantly shorten the duration and severity of your symptoms if started early. At Sahara West Urgent Care, we recommend a […]
Is Day 3 the Worst Day of the Flu?
Yes, for many people, Day 3 represents the peak of the influenza virus. While symptoms typically appear 1 to 4 days after exposure, the “peak” period, when your immune response is working hardest, usually falls between Day 2 and Day 4. During this peak, you are likely to experience the most intense fever, systemic body […]
What Kills the Influenza Virus?
The influenza virus is primarily killed by heat, UV light, and lipid-disrupting chemicals such as soap, alcohol-based sanitizers, and household disinfectants like bleach or hydrogen peroxide. Because the flu virus is “enveloped” in a fatty layer, disrupting that outer shell renders the virus inactive and unable to infect human cells. While surface cleaning kills the […]
How Long Does It Take to Get Rid of Influenza (Flu)?
Most healthy individuals recover from the flu within 5 to 7 days, though certain symptoms like fatigue and a lingering cough can persist for two weeks or longer. While fever and body aches typically subside within the first 3 to 4 days, the total recovery window depends heavily on your age, immune system strength, and […]
What Can I Take for the Flu While Pregnant?
Yes, you can manage flu symptoms while pregnant, but it requires a cautious, “safety-first” approach. Managing a fever is critical, as high body temperatures can potentially affect fetal development. While Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is generally considered the gold standard for pain and fever relief during pregnancy, you should consult with a healthcare provider before starting any […]
What is the Quickest Way to Get Rid of Influenza?
The quickest way to shorten the duration of the flu is to take prescription antiviral medications, such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu), within 48 hours of the onset of symptoms. These medications can reduce the severity of the virus and shorten your recovery time by one to two days. While the flu is a virus and cannot […]
What is the Best Treatment for Influenza?
The best treatment for influenza (the flu) is a combination of prescription antiviral medications and supportive home care. For the most effective results, antivirals such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu) or baloxavir (Xofluza) should be started within 48 hours of the first symptoms. These medications can shorten the duration of the illness, reduce the severity of symptoms, […]