Experiencing symptoms of a cold or the flu can be uncomfortable and disruptive to daily life, and knowing when to seek medical attention is crucial for prompt treatment and relief. At Yale New Haven Health Urgent Care, we offer on-demand care for colds and influenza (the flu) at our locations throughout Connecticut and New York. All of our centers feature on-site labs, so if we determine that you need flu testing, we’ll have definitive PCR results back to you the same day. Plus, our urgent care locations are open 7 days per week with extended hours for your convenience.
It can be difficult to distinguish between the common cold and the flu—both of which are contagious respiratory illnesses caused by viruses—and that’s why it’s so important to consult with a trained medical provider when you’re feeling ill. Both a cold and the flu can cause the following symptoms:
With that said, flu symptoms tend to develop much more suddenly than cold symptoms, and they’re usually considerably more severe. The flu is also more likely to cause a fever, chills, a headache, fatigue, and achiness, while colds are more likely to produce a stuffy or runny nose, sneezing, and a sore throat.
So, now that you’ve determined whether you have a common cold or the flu, you may be wondering what your next steps should be. Is it time to visit your primary care physician? Should you head straight to the emergency room? Or can you simply walk into your nearest urgent care center? Depending on your symptoms, one of these options may be a better choice for you than the others.
If you have mild cold or flu symptoms (runny nose, sore throat, or cough) that do not require urgent medical attention, you may want to turn to your primary care provider for guidance on home care and symptom management. Individuals with chronic medical conditions should also maintain regular communication with their primary care provider, especially during cold and flu season. Your PCP can provide personalized recommendations and ensure that your treatment plan aligns with your overall health needs.
If your cold or flu symptoms are mild to moderate, urgent care may be the best choice for you. Symptoms such as high fever, severe body aches, or persistent cough warrant medical evaluation. Keep in mind that certain populations, including young children, the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals with underlying health conditions, are at higher risk of developing complications from cold and flu viruses. If you or a loved one falls into one of these categories and experiences flu-like symptoms, urgent care can provide timely evaluation and treatment.
Severe cold and flu symptoms such as chest pain, difficulty breathing, confusion, or sudden dizziness, require immediate medical attention. These symptoms may indicate a serious complication and must be addressed by an emergency medical professional as soon as possible.
When you visit Yale New Haven Health Urgent Care for cold or flu treatment, we’ll determine exactly what’s causing your symptoms and then recommend the course of treatment that’s most appropriate for your specific needs. Antiviral medications may be prescribed to shorten the duration and severity of flu symptoms, especially when started within the first 48 hours of illness. Our urgent care providers can assess your condition and determine if antiviral treatment is appropriate.
At Yale New Haven Health Urgent Care, we are proud to provide fast, friendly, and professional care when and where patients want it. We have numerous locations across Connecticut and New York, and you can choose whether to book online in advance or simply walk in at the time that’s best for you. Or, if you’d rather speak to a local provider remotely, you can do so anytime using our 24/7 telemedicine service. We look forward to helping you find relief from your cold or flu symptoms.
Patient: Derby, Connecticut
We are proudly associated with Yale New Haven Health in Connecticut and New York. We, also, work collaboratively with local providers, including your primary care or specialty doctor, across Connecticut and New York.
Our experienced providers are trained in emergency, family, and internal medicine. In fact, you’ll find many are the same experts who have treated patients in local area hospitals.
Fees vary, though are significantly lower than a visit to the emergency room and generally the same or slightly higher than a visit to your primary care doctor.
If you have insurance, the total charges will be determined based on your insurance provider’s policy regarding urgent care and the level of care you receive during your visit with us. If you have further questions, please contact your insurance company.
For information on the estimated cost of a self-pay visit, please call your local Yale New Haven Health Urgent Care center.
If you have a question regarding billing, please visit our Billing & Insurance page to learn more.
To pay your bill online visit our Pay My Bill page.
Yes, we accept most major insurances. Your co-pay is collected and required at the time of service. Please visit our Accepted Insurance page for more information.
