GREEN BAY — When temperatures dip and leaves start to turn, we all know what’s coming — cold and flu season. Understanding when and where to seek care for your cold or influenza symptoms can be confusing, but Emplify Health by Bellin is here to help make it clearer.
“When deciding to seek care, it’s essential to consider the severity of your symptoms,” says Sarah Stone, nurse practitioner with Emplify Health by Bellin FastCare. “Many cold and flu symptoms last only a few days and can typically be managed with over-the-counter medications at home.”
It’s also recommended to consult your primary care provider when symptoms begin, if possible. Getting to know your primary care provider early can help you stay ahead of any symptoms, like those associated with cold or flu. You can also learn what to do next for your health needs.
When your symptoms worsen or over-the-counter remedies no longer work, it’s time to seek further care. “Typically, a cold will last about 7 to10 days while a flu can begin abruptly and stay around for about 5 to 7 days. When your symptoms persist longer than the typical duration and may include trouble breathing or swallowing, chest pain, persistent cough or a fever that is persistent and over 100.4 degrees F then you know it’s time for further action,” added Stone. “Since our medical concerns don’t like to stick to business hours, Emplify Health by Bellin ensures community members have access to the right care at the right time.”
When needing further care for your cold and flu symptoms, including outside business hours, check out these Emplify Health by Bellin locations:
FastCare: walk-in location reserved for treating flu or cold symptoms such as cough or sore throat. COVID and flu vaccines are also available through FastCare.
Fastlane: drive-through option for testing COVID, flu and strep. Available for collecting nasal and throat swabs or blood draws and vaccinations for influenza or COVID 19.
Urgent Care: when you can’t meet with your primary care provider but still require assessment for your cold or flu symptoms.
Emergency Department: reserved for immediate medical problems such as difficulty breathing, chest pain or other potentially life-threatening symptoms.
Having a primary care provider can help you get ahead of cold and flu symptoms so more urgent forms of care are not needed. Check in with your provider when symptoms begin through Emplify Health MyChart or by scheduling an in-person or virtual appointment.