Spartanburg Regional Healthcare System is requesting that, for the health of its patients and community, visitors voluntarily stay away from its hospitals if they are experiencing flu-like symptoms.

The healthcare system requests this as a precaution against the spread of influenza. These hospitals include Spartanburg Medical Center (including SMC-Mary Black Campus), Pelham Medical Center, Cherokee Medical Center, Union Medical Center and the Spartanburg Hospital for Restorative Care.

Flu (or influenza) is a contagious respiratory illness that attacks your respiratory system, nose and throat. With flu season in full swing, here's what you need to know:

How do I know if I have the flu?

Common symptoms include:

• Cough

• Runny nose

• Sore throat

• Body and muscle aches

• Fever and chills

What do I do if have the flu?

• There is no “cure” for the flu. Over-the-counter medications can help symptoms.

• Consider visiting your primary care doctor or an immediate care center if you are sick and need medical attention. Emergency departments are not the appropriate place to be seen for flu symptoms, unless you fall under the following categories:

  • People younger than 2 years old and older than 65 years old
  • Pregnant women (and women up to two weeks postpartum)
  • Nursing home and long-term care facility residents
  • Multiple chronic conditions, such as heart disease and blood disorders.
• Stay home to avoid spreading the virus.
• Drink lots of fluids
• Plenty of rest

I don't have the flu. How do I avoid it?

To prevent the flu for yourself and those around you:

• Get vaccinated to avoid the flu or lesson symptoms and severity
• Avoid close contact with people who are sick
• Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing
• Thoroughly wash your hands. (Here's a tip: Sing “Happy Birthday” in your head while washing and don't stop until the song is complete.)
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth

Flu vaccine facts

• The flu vaccine has lowered cardiac events rates for heart disease patients.
• The flu vaccine can help prevent illnesses for those with chronic health conditions.
• The vaccine helps protect pregnant women and their baby after birth from the flu.

Think you may have the flu? Visit an Immediate Care Center. There are five to serve you.

Reserve your place in line and use online check-in for an Immediate Care Center visit.

You can also connect with a board-certified physician on your computer, tablet or phone through Virtual Care.