If you think you have the flu – or just a severe cold – you have an alternative to the overcrowded emergency room. Swedish offers on-demand options to meet your care needs. You can get treatment at one of our Swedish Express Care or urgent care clinics, visit with a doctor at your home, or get answers in an online virtual visit with a doctor using your cellphone, tablet or computer. These on-demand options save you time and money, while limiting your exposure to colds and the flu.
And if you haven’t had a flu vaccination, you should – even now – physicians say. A vaccination may still help you avoid being swept into this winter’s tidal wave of sickness.
Last season’s flu outbreak set records in the Northwest. It stressed emergency departments and, in some cases, contributed to the deaths of older people and those with pre-existing conditions.
In Washington, Swedish tracked the flu, and across the state there were 76 laboratory-confirmed flu deaths during the 2016-2017 season. Those who died were elderly or had underlying health conditions. Learn more flu facts based on the data Swedish has complied here.
In Oregon, The Oregonian reported that last year’s flu season was the worst in the state’s history, with more than 1,000 hospitalizations. The state doesn’t track flu-related deaths among adults, the newspaper said.
Express Care is quick and easy
Swedish, Providence and our other affiliated providers offer on-demand services that include neighborhood clinics, virtual visits and visits at home. These on-demand services provide examinations, vaccinations and can get you the treatment you need to get well fast.
If you’ve got chills, are feverish or just feel downright crummy, don’t suffer waiting in line at the ER. You can get the care you need on demand. Get started here.
Flu basics
The influenza virus causes a contagious respiratory illness that can be mild to severe. Young children, older people and those with certain health conditions may be especially vulnerable. Flu symptoms include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle aches
- Headaches
- Fatigue
If you’re at risk, watch this video to get tips from Swedish physician Elizabeth Meade, M.D., on how to protect yourself.
Vaccinate every year
Scientists use data from a current flu season to come up with a “best guess” for an effective vaccine for the next season. It’s not too late. A flu vaccine is the key preventive measure you can take to protect yourself this season. Health care providers urge most everyone to get a flu shot.
Get well faster. Visit our Express Care site.
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