Flu Shots & Flu Tests in Tampa

Protect yourself and your loved ones from influenza (the flu), a contagious respiratory illness that can cause mild to severe symptoms and sometimes lead to serious complications. At Sunshine Urgent Care, we make it easy to protect yourself with preventative flu shots and get fast answers with reliable flu tests right here in Tampa. Understanding flu season, symptoms, and prevention is key to staying healthy.

Flu Shots: Your Best Defense Against the Flu

An annual flu vaccine is the best way to reduce your risk of catching and spreading the flu to others. It can also make your illness milder if you do get sick.

When is Flu Season?
Flu season in the United States most commonly peaks between December and February, but flu viruses can start circulating as early as October and linger into May. The exact timing and severity can vary each year. Staying informed and prepared is crucial.

Best Time to Get Your Flu Shot
The CDC recommends getting vaccinated by the end of October before flu activity increases. It takes about two weeks after vaccination for antibodies that protect against flu virus infection to develop in the body. However, getting vaccinated later is still beneficial, even into January or later, as flu season can extend into the spring. Sunshine Urgent Care offers convenient flu shots in Tampa throughout the season. Stop by today to get protected!

Flu Tests: Get Answers Quickly

Do you suspect you might have the flu? Knowing for sure can help you get the right care and take steps to prevent the illness from spreading.

Common Flu Symptoms
Flu symptoms often come on suddenly and can include:

Fever or feeling feverish/chills (though not everyone with the flu will have a fever)
Cough
Sore throat
Runny or stuffy nose
Muscle or body aches
Headaches
Fatigue (tiredness)
Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.

Based on symptoms alone, it can sometimes be hard to tell the difference between a cold and the flu. If you're experiencing severe symptoms or are in a high-risk group, getting tested is a good idea.

Sunshine Urgent Care provides rapid flu tests in Tampa. Our quick diagnostic testing helps determine if you have the flu, allowing our medical team to recommend the appropriate treatment and advice.

Flu Prevention Techniques

Besides getting your annual flu shot, you can take everyday preventive actions to stop the spread of germs:

Wash your hands often: Use soap and water for at least 20 seconds, or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer if soap and water aren't available.
Avoid close contact: Stay away from people who are sick, and stay home if you are sick.
Cover your mouth and nose: Use a tissue when you cough or sneeze, and throw the tissue away immediately. If you don't have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your elbow.
Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth: Germs spread this way.
Clean and disinfect surfaces: Regularly clean frequently touched objects and surfaces like doorknobs, phones, and keyboards.
Practice good health habits: Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food.

Your Partner in Flu Prevention and Care in Tampa
Whether you need your annual flu shot or a rapid flu test in Tampa, Sunshine Urgent Care is here to help. Visit our clinic for prompt, professional care to keep you healthy this flu season.