As the back-to-school excitement builds in Chicago, so does something less welcome: the flu and cold season. While the fall months bring cooler weather, packed classrooms, and busy family schedules, they also mark a sharp increase in contagious illnesses, such as influenza and the common cold. At CLEAR Immediate Care, we’re here to help you and your family stay healthy and prepared with walk-in urgent care services available 7 days a week.
Why Do Colds and Flu Increase in the Fall?
When kids return to school, they share more than school supplies and snacks—they also spread germs. Crowded classrooms, shared surfaces, and close contact create the perfect storm for viruses to travel quickly. According to the CDC, flu activity often begins to increase in October and can peak between December and February.
Additionally, as temperatures drop, people tend to gather indoors more often, increasing the risk of spreading airborne viruses. Dry air in the fall and winter can also weaken the body’s natural defenses, making it easier for viruses to infect the respiratory system.
Recognizing the Symptoms of Cold and Flu
The symptoms of a cold and the flu often overlap, but there are some important differences:
Common Cold Symptoms:
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Sneezing
- Sore throat
- Mild cough
- Fatigue
Flu Symptoms:
- Sudden high fever
- Body aches and chills
- Headache
- Severe fatigue
- Dry cough
- Occasionally, nausea or vomiting
If your child or another family member has sudden, severe symptoms or a high fever, it may be the flu—and prompt treatment is important to reduce the duration and severity of the illness.
When to Head to Urgent Care in Chicago
At CLEAR Immediate Care, we treat both adults and children for a wide range of cold and flu-related symptoms. You should consider visiting us if:
- You or your child has a fever over 101°F that doesn’t go down with medication
- Symptoms are worsening after several days
- There is shortness of breath, wheezing, or chest pain
- You suspect flu exposure and want to start antiviral treatment (must be within 48 hours of symptoms)
- You have underlying health issues such as asthma, diabetes, or a weakened immune system
We offer rapid flu testing, strep testing, and comprehensive care 7 days a week with no appointment necessary—perfect for busy families in the Chicago area.
Cold & Flu Prevention Tips for Families
While there’s no way to avoid every germ, there are proven ways to reduce your risk:
- Get your flu shot early. The CDC recommends flu vaccination for everyone over 6 months of age.
- Teach kids to wash their hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and water.
- Avoid sharing utensils, drinks, or personal items.
- Clean and disinfect high-touch surfaces like doorknobs, phones, and backpacks.
- Encourage healthy sleep, hydration, and nutrition to strengthen the immune system.
At CLEAR Immediate Care, we also provide seasonal flu vaccinations to keep your whole household protected.
Why Chicago Families Choose CLEAR Immediate Care
Located in the heart of Chicago, CLEAR Immediate Care is a trusted provider of family-focused urgent care. We’re open seven days a week, including evenings, to accommodate school and work schedules. Whether it’s a sore throat, persistent cough, or a high fever that won’t go away, we’re here with compassionate care when you need it most.
Our bilingual providers and convenient walk-in clinic model make getting care simple, especially during the busy fall and winter seasons. We’re proud to serve neighborhoods throughout Chicago and surrounding communities, including Lincolnwood, Rogers Park, and West Ridge.
Stay Ahead of Fall Illnesses
Back-to-school season doesn’t have to mean back-to-back illnesses. By staying informed, knowing when to seek care, and getting vaccinated early, you can protect your family from the worst of the flu and cold season. And when illness strikes, you can count on CLEAR Immediate Care in Chicago to provide fast, expert help.