Convenient online consultations and effective flu treatments

Question 1

What is the flu? (And is the flu viral or bacterial?)

Answer

The flu is a respiratory illness caused by strains of the influenza virus that attack the nose, throat and lungs. Symptoms can range from mild to severe. They may include fever or feverish chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headache, fatigue, vomiting and diarrhea. It can sometimes be fatal—especially for high-risk patients, pregnant women and those over 65. About 3% to 11% of the US population catch influenza each year.

Question 2

What causes the flu?

Answer

The flu is caused by an infection with an influenza virus. There are different influenza viruses, so you can get sick even if you’ve had the flu before.

Question 3

How do you catch the flu?

Answer

The flu often spreads when a person with influenza expels tiny droplets that carry the virus as they talk, sneeze or cough. These droplets can infect people standing close by. The virus can also be picked up from contaminated surfaces.

People are most contagious during the first 3-4 days after they experience their first symptoms. In some cases, a person may be able to infect others 1 day before their symptoms become noticeable and 5-7 days after they get sick.

Question 4

How long does influenza last?

Answer

Flu progression and stages of flu recovery can last from several days up to several weeks. Symptoms are usually most intense in the first 3-7 days.

Incubation: This is how long it takes to develop symptoms after exposure to the influenza virus. It usually takes about 2 days to start feeling sick after infection—but this can range anywhere from 1-4 days.
Contagiousness: People are most contagious 3-4 days after symptoms start. But you can infect others even if you don’t have symptoms. You are contagious 1 day before symptoms start up to 7 days after getting sick.
Illness: Symptoms usually start suddenly and typically last 3-7 days. They can last longer, though, especially in people with underlying health problems.
Recovery: Most people fully recover in 2 weeks.

Without treatment, most people recover in about two weeks. Prescription medications can help you feel better faster if taken within the first 48 hours of developing symptoms. If you’re sick and in this window, Dr. B can help you get Tamiflu online or Oseltamivir online from the comfort of your bed. Start a convenient Dr. B. virtual health assessment today.

Question 5

How many types of influenza are there?

Answer

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) classifies 4 types of influenza: A, B, C and D. Influenza viruses A and B cause flu seasons and pandemics. Influenza C causes mild symptoms but doesn't spread widely. Influenza D mainly affects cattle and is not known to infect humans.

Question 6

Do I have the flu or…?

Answer

Flu-like symptoms include cough, sore throat, fever, body aches or chills, headache, extreme tiredness and congestion. These symptoms can occur with other respiratory illnesses, including the common cold, Covid-19 and strep throat. The only way to know for sure is to get tested. But here are some differences between the flu and other common conditions.

Vs. the common cold: The flu tends to develop suddenly and is typically more intense. You’re also more likely to have a fever with the flu.
Vs. strep throat: Strep throat usually only involves fever and a very bad sore throat. You may also see red or white patches in the back of your throat.
Vs. Covid-19: These two conditions share many common symptoms. But Covid-19 sometimes includes a loss of taste or smell.

Question 7

What are the treatments Dr. B offers for flu symptoms?

Answer

The best way to prevent influenza is to get a yearly flu shot. If you get the flu, Dr. B offers Tamiflu and Oseltamivir for treatment. These flu pills effectively treat symptoms—but only if your symptoms have been present for 48 hours or less.

Question 8

Does Tamiflu affect a nasal flu vaccination?

Answer

If Tamiflu is taken 1-2 weeks after receiving a nasal flu vaccine, it may alter the effectiveness of the vaccine. These two treatments should not be taken together or within weeks of each other.

Question 9

How are flu treatments taken?

Answer

Tamiflu and Oseltamivir come as capsules and oral suspensions (liquids). Take them with food or milk to minimize nausea.

Question 10

What are common flu treatment side effects?

Answer

Common side effects of Oseltamivir and Tamiflu include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, upset stomach and diarrhea. They are typically mild and may lessen over time. To avoid such side effects, take these medications with food or water. Talk to your doctor if your symptoms continue or get worse.

Question 11

How can I get a flu prescription online?

Answer

If you've tested positive for the flu, you may be eligible for a prescription treatment through Dr. B's online medical service. First, complete a short health assessment covering your medical history and current symptoms. A licensed medical provider will review your information. If they determine that a prescription treatment is appropriate, they will send it to your pharmacy of choice.

Question 12

How much does a flu treatment cost?

Answer

Consultation: A virtual medical consultation for flu costs $15, which is lower than most doctor copays. Currently, we don’t submit medical consultation claims to insurance companies. But you can use insurance for any resulting prescription at your pharmacy.

Medication: Dr. B only charges for the medical consultation. When medications are prescribed, we let you choose the most affordable or convenient pharmacy to fill the prescription. Your medication prices will vary depending on your insurance coverage and whether the drug is a brand or generic.

Question 13

Do you accept insurance?

Answer

Right now, we don’t submit medical consultation claims to insurance companies. But you can use health insurance for any resulting prescriptions at your pharmacy.