With Minnesota's flu outbreak continuing unabated, many health care providers are balancing two kinds of advice – urging sick patients to stay home so they don't jam clinics and spread the virus, while also making sure that patients who really need medical attention can get it.
Here's the guidance that HealthPartners sent out to members on Friday:
Most people with the flu can manage with self-treatment and do not need to come into the clinic or emergency room. However, we recommend being seen by a doctor or care professional if you suspect you have the flu and any of these symptoms or conditions:
- Flu-like symptoms that improve but then return with a fever and a worse cough
- Difficulty breathing
- Pain or pressure in your chest
- Sudden dizziness or confusion
- Pregnant or within two weeks after delivery
- A weakened immune system due to illness, medication, chemotherapy or HIV/AIDS
- Any chronic respiratory disease
- Diabetes
