Presbyterian Health Plan, Inc. P.O. Box 27489 Albuquerque, NM 87125-7489 www.phs.org Important plan information TC Standard U.S. Postage PAID Presbyterian Health Plan INSIDE Tips for healthy eating 5 Vaccines kids need 8 Your Fall 2025 for Turquoise Care members En español: Si usted desea obtener este boletín en español, llame al (505) 923-5200 o al 1-888-977-2333. When the flu becomes an emergency For many of us, having a bad case of the flu can be a miserable time. But sometimes the flu can be more than just an annoying sickness. It can be downright dangerous. How the flu can be severe The flu is a viral respiratory infection. Although it takes a few days to a week or two, most people recover from the flu. But some people develop severe and even life-threatening problems, like pneumonia. The flu can also lead to dehydration. It can make other health problems a person may already have, like asthma or heart disease, worse. While anyone can develop flu complications, people at higher risk include adults over age 65, younger children, and pregnant women. People with underlying health conditions — such as diabetes or heart, kidney, or lung disease — are also at higher risk. Warning signs of a flu emergency If you have flu-like symptoms (including fever, chills, body aches, and a sore throat) and you’re in a high-risk group, ask your doctor about antiviral medicines. When started early, they may help you recover sooner. You should also pay attention to your symptoms and seek medical care right away if you have signs or symptoms of a flu emergency. These can include: • Trouble breathing or fast breathing in children • Chest pain • Dizziness or confusion • Severe muscle pain, which can be bad enough to affect walking • Seizures • A fever or cough that improves but then returns or worsens • In children, a fever above 104 degrees or, in infants younger than 12 weeks, any fever • Dehydration — signs include not urinating, having a dry mouth, and having no tears when crying • A worsening of chronic health conditions Is it an emergency? If you’re not sure whether your flu illness rises to the level of an emergency, call your primary care provider or visit the nearest emergency room. You can also use Virtual Urgent Care to see a provider without needing to leave your home. Sources: American Academy of Family Physicians; American College of Emergency Physicians; Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
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