Cold and Flu

The cold and flu are common viral infections that may cause concerning symptoms in older adults. Jose de la Llana, MD, and the experienced primary and general care team at Su Clinica Medical Group in San Bernardino, California, provide treatments to ease cold and flu symptoms. They also offer in-office labs to diagnose infections and vaccines for prevention. The practice includes medical professionals fluent in English and Spanish to better serve the needs of the diverse community. Call or schedule an appointment online. Walk-in and same-day appointments are available for private pay patients and as needed.

What should I know about the cold and flu?

The cold and flu are infections caused by viruses. Most people contract the cold or flu when they inhale the virus through tiny droplets spread in the air after someone with the infection coughs, sneezes, or talks.

The cold and flu are respiratory infections and cause similar symptoms, such as:

• Cough
• Stuffy nose
• Sneezing
• Sore throat
• Body aches
• Headaches
• Fever

However, cold symptoms are usually more mild compared to flu symptoms. Additionally, a flu infection may lead to more serious health complications like pneumonia, especially in older adults.

COVID-19 is also a viral infection that can cause mild to severe symptoms. 

When should I seek medical care for a cold or flu?

You should seek medical care for the cold or flu at Su Clinica Medical Group if you have severe symptoms, your symptoms are getting worse, or you’re having a challenging time breathing. 

The team also recommends older adults to schedule an appointment if they suspect they have the flu or COVID-19 to reduce the risk of complications. The team specializes in senior care and offers medical services with English and Spanish-speaking health professionals so people from all backgrounds can get comprehensive care.

You should also schedule a visit at Su Clinica Medical Group if you have cold or flu symptoms that last longer than a week.

What are the treatments for the cold and flu?

The team conducts a thorough evaluation when you come in with cold- or flu-like symptoms to determine the cause so they can create an effective plan. Su Clinica Medical Group features onsite labs to test for the flu and COVID-19.

For the common cold, the team recommends treatments to ease symptoms, like over-the-counter (OTC) pain medication and decongestants. 

If diagnosed during the early stages, the team at Su Clinica Medical Group may prescribe an antiviral treatment for the flu that may reduce the length and severity of your symptoms.

The team also screens for tuberculosis, a bacterial infection.

I don’t want to get sick. How can I prevent the cold and flu?

Washing your hands and avoiding people who have a cold or the flu may prevent you from getting sick. Getting vaccinated for the flu and COVID-19 also provides additional protection from these viral infections. 

Su Clinica Medical Group offers flu vaccines, as well as the tetanus and diphtheria vaccine (TDap).

For comprehensive care for cold and flu infections, call Su Clinica Medical Group today or book an appointment online.