Flu Testing and Treatment FAQs

  • What Are the Symptoms of the Flu?

    The most common symptoms include chills, fever, headache, dry cough, nasal congestion, fatigue, sore throat, shortness of breath, and a rash. Less-common symptoms include a loss of taste or smell, nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea. Learn more about the differences between seasonal allergy, COVID-19, cold and flu symptoms in our recent post.

  • What Are the Symptoms of Flu for Kids?

    Flu symptoms can be different for kids than they are for adults. Symptoms to look for in your children include:
    ● Belly pain, nausea or vomiting
    ● Body aches
    ● Dry cough
    ● Extreme fatigue
    ● Headaches
    ● High-grade fever with chills

  • Why Should I Get a Flu Shot?

    Getting a flu shot is the single most important thing you can do to avoid the flu and minimize your symptoms if you happen to catch it. But it’s also an effective way to reduce the spread of the virus and help protect your loved ones, friends, coworkers and neighbors who have a higher risk of getting seriously ill.

  • What Are the Side Effects of the Flu Shot?

    You may experience soreness, redness or swelling where the shot was given. There's also a chance for a fever and aches. If you have any other questions about side effects, we recommend reaching out to your doctor so they can best answer your questions based on your medical history.

  • When Should I Get a Flu Shot?

    You should plan to get the flu shot in early fall, ideally before the flu season starts. If you haven’t gotten one already this year, you should schedule one as soon as possible at any Centra Care location.

  • Can I Get the Flu After Getting Vaccinated?

    You might get the flu if you come in contact with the virus before you get the shot or during the period where your body is working to gain protection. There's also the possibility of being exposed to a strain that isn't covered by the seasonal vaccine. While there's still a chance you might get the infection after receiving the flu shot, it's still the best way to protect yourself against it!

  • Does Centra Care Offer Flu Vaccines?

    We offer $30 flu shots and a variety of other immunizations to protect your health.

  • When Should I See a Doctor for Flu Symptoms?

    If you think you may have the flu, it is important to see a doctor or visit any Centra Care walk-in clinic within two days of the start of your symptoms. A doctor will be able to prescribe antiviral medication, which is the most effective type of flu treatment. Antiviral drugs work best when started within 48 hours of symptom onset.

  • Why Is it Important to Get a Flu Test?

    The flu test is the best way to confirm whether or not you have the flu so you can get the treatment you need. Even though many people think of the flu as a minor illness, it can be very serious. Getting proper treatment quickly can ensure you feel better faster, and it can help you avoid complications.

  • How Is a Flu Test Performed?

    Flu tests involve taking a swab of the inside of your nose.

  • What Are Effective Flu Treatments?

    There are several flu treatments available, and a medical professional can help you determine which one is right for you. The most common flu treatments are antiviral drugs like Tamiflu®, which can help shorten the duration of the flu. There are four drugs that are FDA approved to treat the flu:

    ● Tamiflu®

    ● Relenza®

    ● Rapivab®

    ● Xofluza®

    Many Centra Care locations offer Tamiflu or a generic alternative (oseltamivir phosphate) near you for only $30 on-site or can get you the prescription you need.

    In addition, your doctor may also recommend fluids, pain relievers or fever reducers to help ease your symptoms. Over-the-counter treatments will also help control your symptoms, including Tylenol Cold and Flu, Mucinex, Alka-Seltzer Plus Cold and Flu, Vicks NyQuil Cold and Flu, Severe, Theraflu, and others. Talk to your doctor about which medicines might be right for you.

  • What Are the Benefits of Getting Flu Treatment?

    Flu treatments can protect you from developing complications from the flu, like pneumonia. They can help you feel better sooner (shorten the duration of your illness), and they can make your symptoms less severe.

  • How Long Does it Take to Get My Flu Test Results?

    Centra Care locations offer rapid flu tests, and your results are usually available within 15 minutes.

  • Where Can I Get a Flu Test and Treatment Near Me?

    You can get a flu test and treatment at any AdventHealth Centra Care location. Many of our walk-in

    clinics are open 7 days a week with extended hours on weekdays.