The flu is a form of viral infection that primarily impacts an individual’s respiratory system which includes the nose, throat, and lungs. At APT Urgent Care, we understand the severity of the flu and provide effective treatments to manage its symptoms and minimize the risk of complications. The flu is caused by influenza viruses, which fall into three categories: A, B, and C. Influenza A as well as B viruses make up the most common and are responsible for the seasonal epidemics that we often see among our patients at our New Jersey clinics. Influenza C usually results in milder illnesses and is not generally associated with widespread epidemics. Flu transmission primarily occurs through respiratory droplets which are spread when an individual who is infected coughs, sneezes, or talks. Due to its contagious nature, it's especially important to seek medical attention at APT Urgent Care as soon as you observe flu symptoms such as a sudden high fever, sore throat, chills, cough, body aches, or fatigue. Antiviral medications, which can be prescribed at APT Urgent Care within the first 48 hours of symptoms, can lessen the duration and severity of the illness. Further, our medical professionals may recommend rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications for pain and fever, to provide relief from the symptoms. At APT Urgent Care, we emphasize the importance of yearly vaccination against the flu. The flu virus continually evolves, with new strains arising regularly. Therefore, yearly vaccination is essential to remain protected against many of the common strains of the flu. Certain groups are particularly susceptible to severe flu, including young children and pregnant women as well as people with chronic health conditions and older adults. We provide specialized care for such high-risk groups at our clinics, ensuring their health and safety.