Can Urgent Care Treat the Flu? Here Is What We Can Do

StatCare Urgent Care
Jan 27
2 min read

Many patients in South Texas are unsure whether urgent care can treat the flu or if they need to see their primary care provider or visit the emergency room. The good news is that urgent care can manage most flu cases quickly and effectively.

Knowing what urgent care can and cannot do helps patients seek care with confidence.

What Urgent Care Can Do for Flu Symptoms

Urgent care clinics are equipped to evaluate flu symptoms and provide appropriate care. Services typically include:

Medical evaluation and physical exam
Flu testing when indicated
Guidance on symptom management
Prescriptions for antiviral medications when appropriate
Work or school excuse notes

Urgent care focuses on timely care and helping patients recover safely at home.

When Flu Treatment Works Best

Antiviral medications are most effective when started within the first 48 hours of symptoms. Even if symptoms have been present longer, evaluation is still important, especially for high-risk patients.

Early care can shorten the duration of illness and reduce the risk of complications.

Who Should Be Seen Early

Patients who benefit most from early evaluation include:

Adults age 65 and older
Children under 5 years old
Pregnant individuals
Patients with chronic medical conditions
Anyone with worsening or severe symptoms

Urgent care providers can help determine the best next steps for care.

What Urgent Care Does Not Replace

Urgent care is not a replacement for emergency care in severe cases. Patients should seek emergency care if they experience:

Difficulty breathing
Chest pain
Confusion or altered mental status
Severe weakness

When in doubt, seeking medical attention promptly is always recommended.

Why Choose StatCare Urgent Care

StatCare Urgent Care provides walk-in evaluation for flu symptoms across South Texas. Patients choose urgent care for faster service, extended hours, and accessible care close to home.

Learn more about services and locations by visiting www.mystatcare.com.