Infectious Diseases
Main Line Health’s infectious disease specialists provide diagnosis, treatment and prevention of a variety of illnesses and infections.
Influenza (Flu)
What is the flu?
The flu is a seasonal illness that compromises your airway and lungs. The timespan between when a person has the virus in his or her body and when they feel ill is usually less than a five-day work week. The illness should only last one to two weeks. If you are still having symptoms for longer than this, you might be experiencing indoor allergies or outdoor allergies.
Symptoms appear similar to a very body cold with high temperature (over 100°F ). Those with the flu also suffer with painful chest and coughing, sneezing or congestion, body/headache, accompanied by fatigue.
If you have certain conditions, such as asthma, you may be considered high risk and need to be particularly careful during flu season, which generally lasts from October through May with peak months being December, January and February.
Other high risk groups include individuals with:
Age is also a factor. Seniors 65 and older, and children five and under are more vulnerable to flu and flu complications. Pregnant women are also more at risk. If you are or could possibly be pregnant, please take extra precautions while interacting with others.
Tests and treatments for flu
The flu virus can be detected through a swab sample of your nose or throat. Yearly vaccination is critical to prevent illness for you and your loved ones. If you have already become ill, a doctor may prescribe antiviral medication, which is more effective when taken early on.
Whether you are diagnosed with cold or flu, rest is the key to recovery. Slowing down in your daily life is the best tool for fighting illness. This way you can focus your energy on getting better.
Occupational Health Services
Learn how Main Line Health occupational medicine specialists offer services for employers to keep their workforce as healthy as possible.
Urgent Care
Urgent care near me for patients of all ages for a wide range of health conditions and non-life-threatening health issues.