Urgent cares prepare for cold, flu season

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WROC) — Cold and flu season is right around the corner, and local urgent cares and emergency rooms are preparing for an influx of patients.

Experts say not every case should go to the ER, and some can even be treated remotely.

Virtual urgent care can allow patients to talk directly to doctors through their smart phones and computers, and can be perfect for simpler cases like cold and flu symptoms. This can free up in-person urgent cares and emergency rooms for more serious cases.

“The urgent cares are a place you can go to be evaluated for mild, non life-threatening concerns,” Rochester Regional Health Urgent Care Director Dr. Scott Allan said. “If you’re worried you have a cold and might need an antibiotic, we’re the perfect place for it. If you’re injured and worried you might have a fracture, we can check that out for you. If you have a bad cut and might need stiches, that’s what we’re here for as well.”

Urgent cares can test for cold, flu, RSV, and COVID, so those with symptoms are encouraged to visit.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to RochesterFirst.