Red Sox Catch … the Flu?

Influenza (flu) is still present in Massachusetts and is affecting many locals, including the Red Sox.

During the early weeks of the 2017 baseball season, one opponent the Red Sox haven’t been able to defeat isn’t on-field; it’s influenza.

It has been reported that the Red Sox organization has been hit with the flu virus – with at least five players and multiple coaches affected – and have fumigated the clubhouse in an attempt to stop the virus from continuing to spread.

"People are busy, and getting sick is inconvenient. Whether your job is to throw strikes every inning or to juggle ballet lessons and little league games, we're here for you."

Andrea Tager, Director of Marketing, PhysicianOne Urgent Care

While Boston’s favorite sluggers continue to fight the flu, what can locals do to protect themselves from the virus?

"Try your best to stay away from sick people; however, we know that's not always easy. Regardless of whether we are in flu season or not, the best way to avoid getting sick is to wash your hands with soap and water or with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer frequently, especially after shaking hands or touching surfaces that might be contaminated,” said Dr. Jeannie Kenkare, PhysicianOne Urgent Care Co-founder and Chief Medical Officer. “Don't touch your face, including your mouth or nose, without first washing your hands, since we know that the flu virus can enter your body through transfer from surfaces to your hands and into your body through your nose and mouth. And don't share food and drinks, as you'll be sure to share the germs from contaminated cups and utensils that way."

Influenza usually causes a number of unpleasant symptoms, including cough, stuffy or runny nose, sore throat, fever, chills, headaches, body aches, and fatigue.

“If you think you might have the flu and are in a high-risk group (including young children, people over 65, and those with certain medical conditions), or are feeling very sick, it's important to seek medical care early, since the most effective time-period to treat with antivirals is within the first two days,” said Dr. Kenkare. "Antiviral drugs can help to make the illness less severe, prevent serious complications, and shorten the duration of illness. Although they have great utility, they are not used for every patient with influenza and do have their own side effects we need to be cautious of."

PhysicianOne Urgent Care is open every day of the week and has hours that extend beyond the normal primary care provider hours, allowing patients to be seen – and begin treatment, if appropriate – sooner.

“We provide care for your flu symptoms today, not next week, so you can feel better, faster, and get back to living your life. That’s why people come to PhysicianOne Urgent Care,” said Andrea Tager, PhysicianOne Urgent Care’s Director of Marketing. “People are busy, and getting sick is inconvenient. Whether your job is to throw strikes every inning or to juggle ballet lessons and little league games, we’re here for you.”

About PhysicianOne Urgent Care

PhysicianOne Urgent Care provides quality, easily-accessible, walk-in medical care for non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries. All 18  locations throughout Massachusetts, Connecticut, and New York are open 365 days per year; 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., weekdays, and 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., weekends and holidays. Experienced providers are on-site at all times. X-ray and lab services are available on-site. Insurance is accepted; self-pay options are also available. Parking is available at all locations.

Founded in 2008, PhysicianOne Urgent Care was the first in the market to be accredited and certified by the Urgent Care Association of America. PhysicianOne Urgent Care is a cost-effective alternative to the Emergency Room as well as a convenient alternative to primary care physicians during off or peak hours.

For more information, including a list of services, locations, insurances accepted, career opportunities, and more, please visit www.PhysicianOneUrgentCare.com.

Contact: Andrea Tager, Director of Marketing, atager@physicianoneurgentcare.com

Source: PhysicianOne Urgent Care