Winter Is Here—And So Are Seasonal Illnesses
Colder weather, holiday gatherings, and more time spent indoors make December one of the busiest months for winter illnesses. From the flu to lingering coughs, it can be hard to know what’s normal and what needs medical attention.
At CheckPoint Urgent Care, we’re here to help you understand what’s going around, how to protect yourself, and when it’s time to come see us for expert care.
Common Winter Illnesses to Watch For
1. Cold & Flu
Cold and flu symptoms often overlap—congestion, coughing, sore throat, fever—but the flu typically comes on faster and hits harder.
Signs you may have the flu:
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Sudden fever
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Body aches
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Fatigue
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Chills
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Dry cough
If symptoms last longer than a few days or significantly worsen, urgent care can help rule out complications like pneumonia.
2. RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus)
RSV is especially common in winter and can be serious for infants, older adults, and people with weakened immune systems.
Watch for:
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Wheezing
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Difficulty breathing
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Persistent cough
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High fever
If breathing becomes labored or symptoms escalate quickly, visit urgent care right away.
3. Strep Throat
Unlike a typical sore throat, strep throat tends to cause:
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Severe throat pain
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Pain when swallowing
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Fever
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Swollen lymph nodes
A rapid strep test at urgent care can give you fast answers and treatment.
4. Sinus Infections
Cold weather can lead to sinus pressure, headaches, and congestion.
Visit urgent care if you experience:
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Symptoms lasting more than 10 days
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Severe facial pain
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Thick, persistent mucus
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Fever that doesn’t improve
Antibiotics may be necessary depending on the cause.
5. Winter Skin Issues
Dry, cracked, or irritated skin is common as temperatures drop.
Urgent care can help with:
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Skin infections
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Rashes
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Eczema flare-ups
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Severe dryness or cracking that becomes painful
Moisturizing regularly and staying hydrated can help prevent irritation.
How to Protect Yourself This Winter
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Wash hands often to reduce germs.
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Stay hydrated—yes, even in cold weather.
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Boost immunity with balanced meals and enough sleep.
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Avoid close contact with sick individuals.
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Get your flu shot if you haven’t yet.
Small habits make a big difference during peak illness season.
When to Visit CheckPoint Urgent Care
You should seek care if you experience:
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High fever that won’t break
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Difficulty breathing
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Severe sore throat
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Persistent or worsening cough
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Dehydration
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Ear pain
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Symptoms lasting longer than expected
Our team provides fast, friendly care for you and your family — no appointment needed.
Contact Us
Feeling under the weather or unsure what you’re dealing with?
Visit any of our three CheckPoint Urgent Care locations or contact us today for prompt, professional care.
Find your nearest location here.
