Can Urgent Care Treat the Flu?

Quick Answer:

Yes, urgent care can diagnose flu with a rapid test (results in 15 minutes) and prescribe Tamiflu if caught within 48 hours of symptoms. They can also provide IV fluids for dehydration. Cost is typically $100-$200.

Flu Treatment at Urgent Care

Urgent care is an excellent choice for flu diagnosis and treatment, especially when you need same-day care.

What Urgent Care Offers

  • Rapid flu test: Results in 15-20 minutes
  • Antiviral medication: Tamiflu (most effective within 48 hours)
  • IV fluids: For dehydration from fever/vomiting
  • Symptom relief: Fever reducers, cough medicine

When to Go

Visit urgent care if you have:

  • Sudden onset of fever (100°F+)
  • Body aches and chills
  • Severe fatigue
  • Cough and sore throat
  • Symptoms started within last 48 hours (for Tamiflu)

When to Go to ER Instead

  • Difficulty breathing
  • Chest pain
  • Confusion or altered mental state
  • Severe dehydration (can't keep fluids down)
  • High-risk groups with severe symptoms

Cost

ServiceCost
Visit + flu test$100-$150
Tamiflu (generic)$30-$80
IV fluids (if needed)$150-$300

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