Flu symptoms can come on fast — or linger longer than expected — and knowing where to go for care isn't always obvious. During peak flu season, emergency rooms can fill quickly, but not every flu symptom needs ER-level care. We've created a quick guide to help understand where to seek care based on symptoms.
When to Stay Home or Seek Virtual Care
Most mild flu symptoms can be managed safely from home. Those symptoms include:
- Fever under 101°F that responds to medication
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Mild cough
- Sore throat without trouble swallowing
- Headache or body aches that improve with rest
- Fatigue without shortness of breath
- Mild nausea or vomiting that lasts less than 24 hours (and able to keep fluids down)
On-demand telehealth is a good option if you:
- Need guidance on symptom management
- Want to ask about antiviral medication, such as Tamiflu (ideally taken within 48 hours of symptoms)
- Need a doctor's note for school or work
When to Visit Primary Care
Most people with the flu start to feel better within three to seven days. If your symptoms last longer but are still manageable, it may be a good sign to seek care with your primary care provider. Many primary care clinics offer same-day sick appointments.
When to Visit Quick Care
Quick Care can be a good option when mild symptoms become uncomfortable or linger. Those include:
- Fever under 101°F that isn't improving as expected
- Mild to moderate sore throat
- Ear pain
- Persistent cough without shortness of breath
- Nausea or vomiting
- Lingering flu symptoms that aren't getting better but are not getting worse
On-site flu testing is available at Quick Care. Our team can assess your symptoms and vital signs, determine if you need a higher level of care and provide a doctor's note for work or school as needed.
When to Visit Urgent Care
Urgent Care is best for moderate symptoms, including those that may require X-ray imaging, breathing treatments or IV fluids for dehydration. Symptoms include:
- Fever 101-103°F that isn't improving with medication
- Severe sore throat or ear pain
- Persistent cough with chest discomfort
- Shortness of breath when moving or coughing
- Body aches that make it hard to function
- Vomiting or diarrhea lasting more than 24 hours
- Trouble keeping fluids down
- Worsening symptoms after 3–4 days of illness
When to Go to the Emergency Room
The following symptoms are can signal a medical emergency and require immediate attention at your nearest emergency room:
- Fever over 104°F
- Fever over 100.4°F in a baby younger than 12 weeks
- Trouble breathing, shortness of breath or feeling like you can't catch your breath
- A child who appears to have difficulty breathing, is breathing fast or is lethargic
- Chest pain or pressure that doesn't go away
- Blue or gray lips or face
- Confusion, trouble waking up or sudden dizziness
- Seizures
- Severe weakness or inability to stand
- Signs of dehydration (no urine for 8+ hours, dry mouth, sunken eyes)
- Flu symptoms that improve, then suddenly get much worse