Cold and Flu Treatment in Fairfax, VA

At Prima Urgent Care, we know how important it is to recognize the differences between a common cold and the flu (influenza), especially as both illnesses share many similar symptoms. Knowing what you’re experiencing can help you decide when to seek medical care.

Cold symptoms are usually milder and develop gradually. You might notice a runny or stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat, and a mild to moderate cough. Sometimes, a low-grade fever, mild body aches, watery eyes, and general fatigue may occur, but these symptoms tend to be less severe.

In contrast, flu symptoms often come on suddenly and are typically much more intense. If you have the flu, you’re likely to experience a high fever, chills, pronounced body aches, headaches, and extreme fatigue or weakness that can last for several days. A persistent, dry cough and sore throat are also common, along with a runny or stuffy nose. The flu can sometimes lead to serious complications, especially in young children, older adults, and people with underlying health conditions.

Both conditions are caused by viruses and affect the respiratory system, but the flu generally results in a more abrupt onset and more severe symptoms compared to the common cold.

When to Seek Care at Prima Urgent Care:

If your symptoms are severe, persist longer than expected, or if you experience difficulty breathing, chest pain, or confusion, it’s important to seek medical attention promptly. Our team at Prima Urgent Care is here to help you get the right diagnosis and relief when you need it most.

If you’re unsure whether you have a cold or the flu, or if you’re concerned about your symptoms, don’t hesitate to visit or contact Prima Urgent Care for expert evaluation and care.

Cold and flu symptoms typically develop within one to three days after exposure to a virus. For the common cold, you may notice a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, cough, and mild fatigue. These symptoms usually peak around the second or third day and start to improve after that. Most people recover from a cold within seven to ten days, though a cough or nasal congestion can sometimes last up to two weeks.

The flu, on the other hand, often causes symptoms that come on suddenly and are more severe. These include fever, chills, muscle aches, headache, fatigue, sore throat, and cough.

Flu symptoms generally improve in five to seven days for most healthy individuals, but fatigue and cough can last longer. Young children, older adults, pregnant women, and those with chronic health conditions or weakened immune systems may experience symptoms for an extended period and are at higher risk for complications.

At Prima Urgent Care, we understand how uncomfortable and worrisome these symptoms can be. If your symptoms last longer than two weeks, get worse, or are accompanied by shortness of breath, chest pain, high fever, confusion, or signs of dehydration, it’s important to seek prompt medical attention. These may be signs of a more serious illness or a secondary infection.

Prima Urgent Care is here to help you and your family feel better, faster. Walk in or schedule a visit if you’re experiencing concerning cold or flu symptoms—our experienced medical team is ready to provide the care you need.

Most cases of the common cold or flu can be managed at home with rest, plenty of fluids, and over-the-counter medications to help relieve symptoms like fever, congestion, and body aches. However, there are times when it’s important to seek medical care. At Prima Urgent Care, we recommend coming in if you experience difficulty breathing, chest pain, or a persistent high fever that isn’t improving with home remedies.

You should also visit us if you have a severe headache, confusion, ongoing vomiting, or if your symptoms suddenly get worse after starting to feel better. Those with underlying health conditions, weakened immune systems, young children, and older adults are at higher risk for complications and should consider consulting a healthcare provider sooner.

If you’re unsure about the severity of your symptoms or the best way to manage them, our experienced team at Prima Urgent Care is here to help. Walk in or contact us for personalized care and guidance—your health and peace of mind are our top priorities.

At Prima Urgent Care, we want to help you and your family stay healthy—especially during cold and flu season. Did you know that people with a cold are usually contagious for about one to two days before symptoms appear, and can continue spreading the virus for five to seven days after getting sick? Children and those with weakened immune systems may be contagious for even longer.

Similarly, if you have the flu (influenza), you can start spreading the virus about one day before symptoms begin and remain contagious for five to seven days after falling ill. Young children and individuals with compromised immune systems may be able to spread the flu virus for more than a week.

Both cold and flu viruses are most likely to spread during the first few days of illness, when symptoms like sneezing, coughing, and a runny nose are at their peak. That’s why it’s so important to practice good hygiene—like frequent handwashing and covering your mouth and nose—especially if you’re feeling sick.

If you think you may have a cold or flu, or you’re unsure about your symptoms, Prima Urgent Care is here to help. Our team can provide quick evaluation, testing, and treatment options to help you recover and prevent spreading illness to others. Walk in or schedule your visit online for fast, compassionate care.

When you’re feeling under the weather with cold or flu symptoms, trust Susane Njomo, DNP, FNP-C, and our experienced team at Prima Urgent Care in Fairfax, VA, to provide the care you need. Whether it’s a sore throat, fever, or congestion, we offer fast, effective treatments to help you recover quickly. Our team is dedicated to providing personalized care, ensuring your comfort while addressing your symptoms. With extended hours and no appointment necessary, we make it easy to get the care you need when you need it most.

Why Choose Prima Urgent Care:

• Experienced Team: Our professional team is equipped to handle a wide range of cold and flu symptoms with expert care.

• Convenient Hours: We offer extended hours, including evenings and weekends, so you can get treated on your schedule.

• No Appointment Needed: Walk-ins are welcome, making it easy for you to get immediate care without the hassle of scheduling.

• Fast, Effective Treatment: We focus on providing quick relief for your cold and flu symptoms, so you can get back to feeling your best.

• Compassionate Care: We prioritize your comfort and well-being, offering personalized care to meet your specific health needs.

For more information contact us to schedule an appointment online. We are conveniently located at 3903 Fair Ridge Dr Suite Q, Fairfax, VA 22033. We serve patients from Fairfax VA, South Riding VA, Dulles VA, Chantilly VA, Stone Ridge VA, Oakton VA, Legato VA, Burke VA, Oak Hill, Lees Corner VA & BEYOND! Our Fairfax location is close to Fair Oaks Hospital, Fair Oaks Mall, and Greenbriar Shopping Center.