Influenza, or the flu, is a highly contagious respiratory illness that can spread rapidly during flu season and cause serious health complications—especially in older adults, young children, and those with weakened immune systems. At MediDental Care, we provide prompt flu diagnosis, treatment, and prevention strategies. As your go-to source for primary care in Astoria, we help patients recover quickly and stay protected year-round.
If you’re experiencing flu-like symptoms or want to protect yourself with a flu shot, our team is here to help.
The flu is caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs. It typically spreads through airborne droplets when people cough, sneeze, or talk.
Flu season typically peaks between October and March but can extend longer.
Influenza is a highly contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses, which can easily move from person to person. The flu virus spreads mainly through droplets released into the air when someone with the flu coughs, sneezes, or even talks. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people nearby, or be inhaled into the lungs, leading to new infections. The flu can also spread by touching surfaces or objects contaminated with the virus and then touching your mouth, nose, or eyes.
Because the flu is so contagious, it’s important to recognize flu symptoms early and seek medical care—especially for those at higher risk of serious complications, such as people with asthma, diabetes, or weakened immune systems. Early evaluation and treatment with flu antiviral drugs like oseltamivir (Tamiflu) can help shorten the duration of illness, reduce the risk of complications, and prevent the spread of the virus to others. The CDC recommends prompt treatment with antiviral medications for people with flu symptoms, particularly those at higher risk, to help manage symptoms and protect overall health.
Flu symptoms can develop suddenly and range from mild to severe.
Common symptoms include:
Flu symptoms often overlap with other illnesses like COVID-19 or the common cold. Early diagnosis is essential.
You should contact your Astoria primary care provider if:
Our team provides fast, accurate flu testing and individualized treatment plans based on your symptoms, age, and health history. Flu antiviral medications and some rapid flu tests are available at your local pharmacy, making access to care more convenient.
Antiviral drugs work by helping your body fight the influenza virus. These medications come in several forms, including pills, liquids, and inhaled powders. For example, zanamivir (Relenza) is delivered using a special inhaler device. Like all medications, antiviral drugs can have effects such as side effects, including nausea or other reactions.
When you visit your healthcare provider with flu symptoms, the initial evaluation is a crucial first step. Your provider will review your symptoms, exposure history, and any underlying health conditions that may put you at higher risk for serious complications from the flu. This is especially important for people with chronic illnesses like asthma or diabetes, as well as older adults and those with weakened immune systems.
Early diagnosis allows for timely treatment with antiviral drugs such as oseltamivir (Tamiflu), which can help reduce the severity and duration of flu illness if started within the first two days of symptoms. Prompt medical care is essential to treat the flu effectively, minimize complications, and protect those at higher risk. Following CDC guidelines, your provider will recommend the best course of action to help you recover quickly and prevent the spread of influenza viruses to others.
Rapid flu testing is a valuable tool for quickly identifying influenza viruses in people with respiratory illness. This simple test, often performed with a nasal swab, can distinguish the flu from other illnesses like pneumonia or the common cold. Rapid flu tests are available at many pharmacies, healthcare offices, and hospitals, and some at-home tests are now approved for people aged 2 and older.
If you use an at-home flu test, it’s important to share your results with a healthcare professional, who may recommend further clinical testing to confirm the diagnosis. Rapid flu testing helps guide your medical care, ensuring you receive the right treatment and advice. Knowing your flu status also helps prevent the spread of the virus—if you test positive, staying home and following your provider’s recommendations can reduce the risk of infecting others.
Personalized treatment for the flu means your care plan is tailored to your unique health needs and risk factors. For people at higher risk of flu complications—such as those with chronic health conditions, weakened immune systems, or advanced age—your provider may recommend starting antiviral medications like baloxavir (Xofluza) or zanamivir (Relenza) as soon as possible. These antiviral drugs can help treat flu illness, reduce the risk of serious complications, and shorten the duration of symptoms.
In addition to medications, your provider will advise you to get plenty of rest, stay hydrated with liquids like water or electrolyte drinks, and avoid close contact with others to prevent spreading the flu virus. Following your doctor’s instructions and taking all prescribed medications as directed is essential for a smooth recovery and to protect your health and the health of those around you.
Preventive counseling is a key part of flu care, helping you and your family reduce the risk of flu complications and limit the spread of influenza viruses. Your healthcare provider will offer practical advice on protecting yourself and others, such as getting the seasonal flu vaccine every year, washing your hands frequently, and avoiding close contact with people who are sick.
If you develop flu symptoms like fever, cough, or diarrhea, it’s important to stay home from work, school, or public places to prevent spreading the virus. Avoid sharing food, drinks, or utensils, and practice good hygiene to reduce the risk of transmission. By following these preventive measures, you can help protect your health, reduce the spread of the flu, and safeguard those at higher risk of serious complications—especially during peak flu season when flu spread is most common.
Depending on your condition and risk factors, we may recommend:
While many people recover from the flu within a week, it can lead to serious complications in vulnerable individuals.
The flu shot is your best protection against seasonal influenza. At MediDental Care, we offer convenient, walk-in flu vaccinations for adults and children.
Whether you need immediate relief or seasonal protection, we’re your home for trusted primary care in Astoria.
Don’t let the flu slow you down. Whether you need testing, treatment, or a vaccine, the MediDental Care team is here to help you stay healthy and strong.
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Fast flu care. Trusted prevention. Visit MediDental Care for complete influenza management and learn what to do if you have a dental emergency at home today.
Most people recover in 5–7 days, though fatigue may last longer. Symptoms can be worse in older adults or high-risk individuals.
No. The flu is caused by a virus, so antibiotics are not effective unless there’s a secondary bacterial infection.
Antivirals like Tamiflu are most effective when started within 48 hours of symptom onset. Contact us promptly if you suspect the flu.
Yes. Flu vaccines are safe, effective, and recommended annually for most people over 6 months of age.
Yes. It’s possible to be co-infected. That’s why we often test for both when symptoms overlap.
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2246 31st St, Astoria, NY 11105