Cold & Flu Treatment in Houston

Urgent care for cold and flu symptoms

Feverish, achy, coughing, and sneezing? You most likely have upper respiratory infection symptoms — but is it the flu, the common cold, or COVID-19? Visit one of our NeuMed clinics for the appropriate diagnosis and care. Simply walk in, reserve your seat online, or arrange a virtual visit.

Every day of the year from 8am to 8pm, we are here for you.

What is the flu?

Influenza is a respiratory condition that mostly affects the upper respiratory system, including the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs. While it typically results in mild to moderate illness, in rare cases it can be serious. Flu symptoms can include:

• Body aches
• Chills
• Cough
• Fatigue
• Fever
• Headache
• Runny nose
• Sore throat
• Vomiting and/or diarrhea

Children’s cold and flu

Children are more likely than adults to experience respiratory illnesses, especially during cold and flu season. Most children recover quickly, but severe symptoms may require additional care. Take your child to the emergency room if you notice:

• A complete lack of energy or lethargy
• Fever exceeding 102°F for more than 3 days
• 105°F or higher fever at any time
• Refusing fluids or not urinating for 8+ hours
• Shortness of breath
• Retractions — skin around the ribcage sucked in while inhaling

Cold and flu treatment

Most colds and flu are treated at home with rest, fluids and over-the-counter medication. Stay hydrated, aim for 7–9 hours of sleep, use a humidifier, and try a spoonful of honey for a cough or sore throat.

Colds often worsen within the first 4–5 days, then improve, with symptoms generally gone by day 7–10. If you’re still suffering after 10 days, book a visit and let’s get you checked out.

Other conditions we treat

We treat much more than just colds and the flu — we can also help with:

• Asthma
• Bronchitis
• Laryngitis
• Mono
• Sinus infections
• Strep throat

Flu, RSV, and COVID-19 evaluation

Cold and flu symptoms overlap with RSV and COVID-19. A NeuMed provider reviews your history and exam, then may recommend rapid testing to guide treatment — including antiviral options for flu when started early and clinically appropriate.

For flu vs COVID comparisons, see our health guide on flu or COVID-19 key differences.

Fever, cough, and sore throat

Fever with cough or sore throat is common during respiratory season. Rapid strep testing is available when throat symptoms suggest bacterial infection. See our fever and sore throat guides for care-decision help.

Pediatric cold and flu care

NeuMed pediatric urgent care treats children 6 months and older. Infants under 3 months with fever need emergency care — not urgent care.

Related respiratory care guides

Explore our health guides for influenza, fever, RSV, and sore throat — or visit our rapid strep testing and COVID-19 testing pages for dedicated service details.