You can avoid the flu this season by taking one simple step: Get a flu vaccination.
Call and make an appointment for you and your family to get yours!
Unfortunately, some people think that getting a flu immunization is too much trouble or costs too much. Or, they swear that a flu immunization will make them sick or more likely to catch the flu—or even colds.
Seasonal influenza—the flu—is caused by one of several strains of influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat and lungs, making life miserable for many—and deadly for some. Flu season can begin as early as October and peak anywhere from late December to early April, according to the CDC. Be sure to call today to schedule your flu vaccination!
Contact your Springfield Clinic doctor's office for more information about flu shot clinics. Reach any SC provider by calling 217.528.7541 (toll-free 800.444.7541).
Do I have a cold or the flu?
A cold and the flu (influenza) are two different illnesses. A cold is relatively harmless and usually clears up by itself after a period of time, although sometimes it may lead to a secondary infection, such as an ear infection. However, the flu can lead to complications, such as pneumonia and even death. What may seem like a cold, could, in fact, be the flu. Be aware of these differences:
| Cold Symptoms: |
Flu Symptoms: |
| Low or no fever |
High fever |
| Sometimes a headache |
A headache very common |
| Stuffy, runny nose |
Clear nose |
| Sneezing |
Sometimes sneezing |
| Mild, hacking cough |
Cough, often becoming severe |
| Slight aches and pains |
Often severe aches and pains |
| Mild fatigue |
Several weeks of fatigue |
| Sore throat |
Sometimes a sore throat |
Normal energy level or may
feel sluggish |
Extreme exhaustion |
Listen as Vladmir Lytchakov, MD, Internal Medicine, discusses the importance of the flu shot for adult patients on the Springfield Clinic Check-up on Alice FM radio show.
Download Podcast