What to Do If You Have Flu-Like Symptoms This Winter?
Going into the 2022-23 winter season, COVID-19 is thankfully not as dominant of a force as it was the previous two winters. But the coronavirus is still a very real part of our society, so that changes how we need to handle an illness that could range from being the common cold to the flu or COVID-19.
To help provide guidance, CHC and has a step-by-step process on what you should do if you come down with flu-like symptoms this winter season.
- Take a Covid Test
At-home tests aren’t available from the federal government anymore, but whether you have Medicare, Medicaid, or private insurance, you’re covered for eight at-home tests per month for each person enrolled on the plan. Check with your form of insurance for more details. This should allow you to keep a steady supply of tests in the home.
If you test negative, test yourself again a day later. If you still have flu-like symptoms, see your doctor (or go to an urgent care-type clinic) that day to get tested for the flu.
If you test positive, call your doctor and see what they recommend for a course of treatment. Depending on your health history and symptoms, you may be prescribed an antiviral or directed to just ride out the symptoms.
- Do You Have the Flu?
If you test positive for the flu, rest, keep your fever down with Tylenol, and drink plenty of fluids. If it’s not the flu, it’s probably just a variation of the common cold, and no more testing is necessary.
- Note How You Feel
Stay home as much as you can until you feel better. If you must go out, do others the courtesy of wearing a tight-fitting mask. If you tested positive for Covid, it’s suggested that you wear a mask while out for five days after you feel better.
