Stay Healthy This Winter

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Winter is right around the corner. That means winter illnesses are on the way. Let's take a look at 7 illnesses, in particular, that you should be careful of this season.

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Colds: This is extremely common. So much so that, according to the CDC, adults have 2-3 colds per year on average, with children having even more than that. Symptoms include a runny or stuffy nose, cough and sore throat, sneezing, and mild fevers. A cold will usually last for 7-10 days.

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Influenza (Flu): A flu generally lasts for 3-7 days. Symptoms include muscle aches, fever, headache, fatigue, dry cough and sore throat, and a runny nose. Luckily, at OnPoint Urgent Care, we offer flu vaccinations that can help prevent you from contracting this illness.

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Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV): This illness can last between 1-2 weeks. RSV infects the lungs and airways, and symptoms are similar to that of a cold, as well as a wheeze-like breathing, which may require hospitalization. RSV can be especially serious for infants.

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Croup: This viral infection can last for 1 week. Symptoms include a barking cough and hoarseness, fever, and runny nose.

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Pneumonia: This lung infection is caused by bacteria or a virus and can last for 2-3 weeks. Antibiotics can be used to treat the bacterial-type of pneumonia. Symptoms include a cough that produces green or yellow mucus, chest pain, high fever, chills, and rapid breathing, and they can come on rather quickly.

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Strep Throat: This bacterial infection can last for 1-2 days, and it is contagious. The good news is strep can be treated easily with antibiotics. Symptoms include difficulty swallowing, sore throat, fever, and a stomach ache. A rash may also develop, which would mean a diagnosis of scarlet fever.

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Stomach Flu: This viral infection takes place in the intestines, and lasts for 1-3 days. Symptoms include stomach pain, nausea and vomiting, mild fever, fatigue, and diarrhea.

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If you are experiencing symptoms and think you may be sick, reach out to us at OnPoint Urgent Care. We want to make sure you are feeling your best this winter, and all year-round!