It seems that the last few months have been filled with a variety of different illnesses and related controversy. From Ebola fears and a flu epidemic to a measles outbreak caused by a lack of vaccinations, the United States has truly seen it all in recent times. Now, doctors are warning that two more common illnesses are on the rise: strep throat and the stomach flu. Read on to learn how you can avoid these highly-contagious conditions, what symptoms you should look for, and how you should treat these illnesses if you get sick.
Urgent care centers in Florida and other states are reporting that their walk in clinics are seeing high numbers of patients with strep throat and stomach flu, in addition to other popular winter ailments like sinusitis, bronchitis, and the flu. Doctors are speculating that the problem is connected to the recent periods of cold weather which have been affecting most of the U.S.: because people are remaining indoors to avoid the cold, these illnesses are spreading more quickly from person to person and even affecting some patients more than usual. However, doctors have commented that no specific virus or bacteria is causing the cases they have seen, a reassuring fact given the medical news in past months.
To avoid developing either of these conditions, doctors recommend that people wash their hands frequently, especially before they eat. However, if you begin vomiting, experience diarrhea, develop a fever, or notice throat pain, you likely have either the stomach flu or strep throat. In this situation, doctors recommend that you stay hydrated by drinking a sports drink with electrolytes, get plenty of rest, and eat simple, healthy foods. A stomach flu should last no longer than 24 to 48 hours, but strep throat will likely last longer. However, patients should likely visit a 24 hour urgent care clinic for a quick check up to properly diagnose their condition. Unlike your local doctors office, 24 hour urgent care clinics do not require appointments and are open any time you may need to access care, making them a great place to get any medication and advice that will help you recover quickly. If you notice any symptoms of a stomach flu, strep throat or other common winter illness, seek care at a 24 hour urgent care clinic as soon as possible.
