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Why Caregivers of Young Children Should Get a Flu Shot

Thu, 25 Aug 2022 13:29:14 GMT

Flu vaccinations help your body fight off the flu. Getting a flu shot allows your body to develop antibodies by introducing a weakened or dead flu virus cell into your body. Your immune system then works to develop antibodies to ward off the weakened or dead flu cells. This allows you to develop antibodies without feeling dramatically affected by the virus.

Vaccinating yourself and your children helps reduce the likelihood of developing the flu, since you already have antibodies to kill any flu cells that enter your body. It also reduces the chances that you can spread flu to others since your body can handle the flu virus much more effectively and quickly. In the event that you do catch the flu, your symptoms will likely be much less severe than if you had not received the flu shot.

Protect the Young Children in Your Care

Children younger than five years, especially those under the age of two, do not have fully developed immune systems. They are therefore at a higher risk of developing flu-related complications if they get sick. Every year, thousands of babies are hospitalized or go to an urgent care center because of flu-related complications. According to the CDC, children may experience the following flu-related complications:

Dehydration
Brain Dysfunction
Sinus Problems
Ear Infections
Worsening of Long-Term Medical Conditions like Asthma
Pneumonia

The CDC advises that children older than six months should receive a flu vaccine every year to reduce their risk of developing flu illness, as well as complications that can lead to hospitalization or worse. If you care for a young child, you can protect them further by getting the vaccine yourself. You can also take everyday preventive actions by avoiding contact with sick people as much as possible, regularly cleaning and disinfecting surfaces that you frequently touch, and washing your hands often.

If you do happen to get sick with the flu, avoid contact with the young children in your care as much as possible. If it's not possible to completely avoid contact, take precautions to minimize risk. Remember that the flu spreads through droplets when you sneeze, cough, or talk. It's also possible to spread the flu if someone touches a surface that has flu virus on it and then touches their own mouth, nose, or eyes. Before engaging in any activity that takes you within six feet of the child in your care, wash and dry your hands thoroughly. Cover your nose when sneezing or coughing and dispose of it immediately.

Your health care provider can offer more information on flu prevention, vaccination, and management. If you care for young children, consult a professional to learn about the steps you can take to minimize risk, including getting your yearly flu shot.

Contact Our Urgent Care Center Today!

Do you take care of young children under the age of five? If so, consider getting your annual flu vaccine to protect them from potentially deadly flu-related complications. A flu vaccine is a simple but effective measure to guard against the flu. Protecting yourself with the vaccine reduces the likelihood you will contract the virus and spread it to other, more vulnerable people. Even if you do not care for young children, you still should get the seasonal flu vaccine because of the protection it provides to you and everyone you encounter.

WellNow Health offers vaccinations for the flu, COVID-19, and other illnesses at our facility serving the Houston and Dickinson, TX area. Contact us today to schedule your flu shot appointment!

What's Included in a DOT Physical?

Wed, 10 Mar 2021 19:21:18 GMT

Learn More About DOT Physical Examinations

The Department of Transportation requires that all their professional drivers remain fit and capable of operating commercial vehicles. While many employers call for their employees to undergo a standard physical, the Department of Transportation has developed a specific exam to ensure the safety of their staff members, their passengers, and the motorists they encounter along the way.

Fortunately, with the assistance of WellNow Health, you've got nothing to worry about. All you have to do is browse the following section to learn about the various tests and elements that comprise DOT physical examinations. With just a bit of research, you'll be fully prepared to get back on the road again.

Explore the Distinct Elements of DOT Physicals

Detailed Health History

Patients are asked to complete a form that details various health information. You may complete this form prior to your DOT exam, and bring it to your selected medical office.

Current Medications
Past Surgeries
Alcohol & Tobacco Use
Current Health Symptoms & Medical Conditions

Physical Examination Elements

You will undergo a series of physical exams to ensure that you're capable of handling all workplace tasks. These exams include the following:

Hearing Exam
Vision Exam
Blood Pressure Test
Various Health Indicators

Urinalysis Examination

In order to pass your DOT physical examination, you'll be required to take a urinalysis exam, which provides insight into blood sugar levels and other health indicators. The urinalysis is also used to screen for drug use.

Contact our Certified Team to Schedule Company Physicals

At WellNow Health, we've made it simple to schedule DOT physical examinations . All you have to do is contact one of our knowledgeable representatives to request an upcoming appointment. It's truly never been easier for local drivers to get back behind the wheel again. Once we determine that you're healthy enough to safely operate a commercial vehicle, you won't have to wait long to receive the necessary paperwork requested by your employer.

Seasonal Allergies Vs. COVID Symptoms

Wed, 03 Mar 2021 15:30:57 GMT

DO I NEED A COVID TEST?

If you have signs or symptoms of COVID-19 it is best to contact a medical professional and set-up an on-site COVID-19 test. However, coronavirus and seasonal allergies share many comparable symptoms, and it is important to distinguish between the two. Seasonal allergies are immune system responses to airborne allergens, such as pollen or dander.

Common Symptoms of Both

Cough
Shortness of Breath or Difficulty Breathing
Fatigue
Headache
Sore Throat
Congestion or Runny Nose

Symptoms Distinguishable to COVID

Fever & Chills
Muscle & Body Aches
Loss of Taste or Smell
Nausea or Vomiting
Diarrhea

Symptoms Distinguishable to Seasonal Allergies

Sneezing
Itchy or Watery Eyes

Prior History

Those individuals with seasonal allergies tend to have a history and timeline of when seasonal allergies can become triggered within their immune system. Allergy symptoms typically react to specific allergy medications and can be used to rule out coronavirus. Emerson Hospital created an allergy, cold, flu, or coronavirus symptoms checklist that can help individuals self-diagnose while waiting to connect with a medical professional.

CONTACT OUR MEDICAL PROFESSIONALS FOR A COVID TEST TODAY!

If you are experiencing any of the symptoms outlined above, it is imperative you connect with our medical staff today . The team at WellNow Health can assist in-person at our offices, or through an online doctor visit. The staff of certified medical professionals at WellNow pride themselves on creating a positive environment for our patients.

With our office in Dickinson, TX, WellNow Health is conveniently positioned to assist with all your urgent care needs. We offer on-site COVID testing and a full complement of virtual urgent care services. Contact our team today to schedule an appointment or to learn more about our services!

Flu Symptoms Vs. COVID Symptoms

Sun, 17 Jan 2021 17:56:29 GMT

EXPLORING THE DIFFERENCES IN FLU & COVID-19 SYMPTOMS

LEARN MORE ABOUT THESE VIRAL SYMPTOMS PRIOR TO YOUR ON-SITE COVID TEST

From that outset, we’ve known that COVID-19 and the flu are respiratory illnesses that spread from person to person. Both illnesses commonly cause a high fever, along with headaches, body aches, fatigue, and nausea. As the COVID-19 pandemic has stretched on, however, we’ve continued to uncover all sorts of differences between these viral threats.

Be sure to browse the following sections to gain a greater understanding of the symptoms of these distinct illnesses. If you have any further questions, be sure to contact a healthcare professional . At WellNow Health, our team is always available to help you safely navigate these trying times.

SYMPTOM ONSET

As opposed to COVID-19, the flu often comes on suddenly. In fact, flu symptoms will generally appear anywhere from one to four days after infection. COVID-19 symptoms, on the other hand, commonly start to show themselves five days after infection. In extreme cases, COVID symptoms won’t surface for roughly 14 days.

COUGH SEVERITY

Flu sufferers usually experience a mild, dry cough. Those infected with the COVID-19 virus suffer a more severe cough that’s dry, persistent, and may leave you short of breath.

UNIQUE COVID-19 SYMPTOMS

Each of the following symptoms are common among COVID-19 sufferers, while standard flu sufferers rarely encounter these issues:

Shortness of Breath
Breathing Difficulty
Stuffy Nose
Sore Throat
Consistent Shaking & Chills
Sudden Loss of Taste & Smell

IF YOU'RE EXPERIENCING SYMPTOMS,

SCHEDULE YOUR VIRTUAL VISIT NOW

No matter the precise nature of your current symptoms, it’s imperative that you seek our medical assistance. Fortunately, the certified staff members at WellNow Health are always standing by to lend a helping hand. Simply schedule an online doctor visit if you’re suffering from COVID-19 or flu-like symptoms. We offer a full suite of virtual urgent care services to ensure our patients access contemporary treatment options from the safety of their own homes.

As always, our local facilities are offering on-site COVID testing in addition to our urgent care telemedicine visits. We’re proud to treat patients throughout the Dickinson and Houston, TX communities. Explore our site today and remain healthy throughout this winter season!

Should I Still Get a Flu Shot during the COVID-19 Pandemic?

Tue, 20 Oct 2020 21:04:16 GMT

When you get the flu shot, not only are you protecting yourself, but you are protecting others from getting the flu. This year, it's especially important to get the flu shot as we are in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. The flu and COVID-19 are similar in that they are both respiratory illnesses. However, they are very different illnesses. The flu shot will not protect you from contracting COVID-19 , but it will help reduce your chances of getting the flu, ending up in the hospital, and needing to be hospitalized. Hospitals already have a lack of medical supplies due to the COVID-19 pandemic and if we all do our part to protect ourselves from the flu, we can help reduce the strain on health care facilities and conserve already limited supplies.

There are a lot of misconceptions floating around about the flu shot and it's important to clear these up. Many people believe they will be more at risk of contracting COVID-19 if they get the flu shot. This is not true since both illnesses are different and one illness does not make you susceptible to contracting the other. On the other hand, many people think getting the flu shot will help reduce their chances of getting COVID-19. This is also incorrect as each illness behaves differently.

When Should You Get a Flu Shot

The CDC recommends that everyone ages 6 months and above, as long as you don't have various health issues, should get their flu shot. Flu shots take about two weeks to fully get into your system and begin working, so it is important to get yours before the flu season starts. Getting your flu shot in September or no later than the end of October puts you in a good position. Currently, there are no shortages on the flu shot, but you should not wait to get yours. COVID-19 vaccinations are not available yet.

Get Your Flu Shot Today

If you are visiting WellNow, serving the Dickinson and Houston, TX areas, for other services such as DOT physical examinations , urgent care services, occupational testing , or other services , ask about getting your flu shot! Do your part to protect you, your family, and your community.

We are also offering COVID tests . If you have reason to believe you have contracted the coronavirus, contact us for more information about our on-site COVID-19 test.

How to Protect Yourself Against Coronavirus (COVID-19) in the Workplace

Wed, 04 Mar 2020 14:39:23 GMT

The coronavirus has been sweeping the nation and the news since late last year and for good reason. More than 93,000 cases have been recorded and more than 3,200 deaths attributed to the disease globally.

As of today, officials in the United States have confirmed nine deaths and more than 100 cases.

What is Coronavirus?

Coronaviruses are a large family of viruses which may cause illness in animals or humans. COVID-19 is the infectious disease caused by the most recently discovered coronavirus. This new virus and disease were unknown before the outbreak began in Wuhan, China, in December 2019.

What Are the Symptoms of COVID-19?

The most common symptoms of COVID-19 are fever, tiredness, and dry cough. Some people may experience aches, pains, nasal congestion, a runny nose, a sore throat, or diarrhea. These symptoms are usually mild and begin gradually.

How to Stay Healthy at Work

Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly - Washing your hands with soap and water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer (with at least 60% alcohol) can kill viruses that may be on your hands.

When washing your hands with soap and water, be sure to wash for at least 20 seconds (the time it takes you to sing ‘happy birthday’ twice). Do so especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.

Maintain your distance from someone who is coughing or sneezing - When someone coughs or sneezes, they release small liquid droplets from their nose or mouth which may contain the virus. If you are too close, you may breathe in the droplets, including the COVID-19 virus if the person coughing has the disease. Maintain a distance of at least 3 feet between yourself and anyone who is coughing or sneezing.
Try to avoid touching your face - Your hands touch many surfaces and can easily pick up viruses. Once your hands have been contaminated, the virus can be transferred to your eyes, nose, or mouth. The virus can then enter your body and make you sick.
Follow CDC’s recommendations for using a facemask - If you are healthy, wearing a facemask is not recommended. Facemasks should be used by people who show symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of the disease to others.

The Latest Updates

The outbreak was declared a Public Health Emergency of International Concern on January 30, 2020.
Almost 130 people in 16 states are infected. At least nine people have died of the COVID-19 disease in the U.S., all of them in Washington state and most of them from a single nursing home in the Seattle area.
The Trump administration vowed that any American can now be tested for the virus if a doctor deems it necessary.
There are at least 100 confirmed cases in the country, along with nine deaths, but some experts have suggested that the real number may be considerably higher if testing is expanded.
The American Chemistry Council's (ACC) Center for Biocide Chemistries (CBC) has compiled a list of products that have been pre-approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) for use against viral pathogens and can be used for the COVID-19 outbreak – here is the list .

You can stay up-to-date on COVID-19 by visiting the WHO and CDC websites. If you are concerned that you may have contracte d COVID-19 or are showing flu symptoms, please contact our immediate care facility in Dickinson as soon as possible. Please be advised, you should stay home if you feel unwell. If you have a fever, cough and difficulty breathing, call us prior to visiting or seeking urgent care. We also offer online doctor visits and on-site COVID-19 testing .