Mono, or infectious mononucleosis, is sometimes called the “kissing disease” for good reason. This illness, which is most often caused by the Epstein-Barr virus, is often transmitted through saliva. Young adults and teens are most susceptible to getting it, and it usually isn’t a cause or serious concern. Learn more about this common illness from our AFC Urgent Care Knoxville team below! Is Mono Contagious? Yes, mono is a very contagious illness. Read on →

During the recent outbreak of the omicron variant, breakthrough COVID-19 infections have sadly become much more common. The reason for this is that the omicron variant is far more transmissible than prior types of the virus. As a result, it becomes more capable of evading the passive immunity provided by immunizations. Read on to learn more about breakthrough infections from our AFC Urgent Care Knoxville team. What Are Breakthrough Infections? Read on →

It’s a well-known fact that viral activity gets worse every winter. More and more people get sick with viruses like the flu between December and February, but why does that happen? Read on as our AFC Urgent Care Knoxville team shares some helpful answers! Is Viral Activity Affected by Cold Weather? Yes, it is. While cold weather itself won’t necessarily make you sick, it does provide a more comfortable environment for illnesses like the flu and COVID-19 to live in. Read on →

While it’s very rare for people over the age of 5 to get croup, it’s a very common respiratory infection for young children. Plus, experts have noticed that omicron cases among young children have brought on croup-like symptoms. To learn more, check out what our AFC Urgent Care Knoxville team has to say below! What Is Croup? Croup is a respiratory infection that almost exclusively affects children between the ages of 3 months and 5 years. Read on →

When it comes to strep throat—or really any type of sickness—visiting a healthcare provider ASAP is always the best plan of action. Medical experts suggest visiting your doctor at least 48 hours after experiencing strep throat symptoms, such as a sore throat that is accompanied by a fever. Our AFC Urgent Care Knoxville team provides further info on strep throat below, so keep reading! What Is Strep Throat? Strep throat is a bacterial infection that is caused by group A Streptococcus bacteria, which causes throat pain and inflammation. Read on →

Have you or a loved one come down with a fever? If so, there’s likely no need to worry. Although fevers cause discomfort, they’re extremely common—especially among those who have the flu. If you have a fever and are looking for ways to feel better, our AFC Urgent Care Knoxville team is here for you! Read on as we provide some helpful tips below. Why Does the Flu Cause a Fever? Read on →

Falling at home may sound difficult to do, but it’s entirely possible and quite common. More than out of four people aged 65 and over fall each year, and many falls result in serious injuries. To protect yourself from potential injury, there are many things you can do to make your home fall-proof! Our AFC Urgent Care Knoxville team provides some helpful fall prevention tips below, so keep reading. Here’s what to do: Remove any and all potential hazards. Read on →

It’s safe to say that many of us have had a sinus infection before. In fact, it’s estimated that there are currently 31 million people in the United States with sinusitis. If you don’t think you’ve had a sinus infection, though, how are you supposed to know if you have it or have had it? Our AFC Urgent Care Knoxville team highlights the tell-tale signs and symptoms of sinusitis below, so read on. Read on →

The flu and COVID-19 are both respiratory illnesses, but they’re related to two totally different viruses. The flu is caused by an infection with influenza viruses, and COVID-19 is caused by an infection with a new coronavirus called SARS-CoV-2. Read on as our team at AFC Urgent Care Knoxville provides some helpful tips on how you can tell these illnesses apart. How Are the Flu and COVID-19 Similar? In addition to both viruses being respiratory illnesses, these viruses are transmitted by contact, droplets and fomites, which are objects that are likely to carry infection, such as clothes or furniture. Read on →

Did you know? Eczema affects up to 15 million Americans each year. Infants are more prone to having eczema than adults, but it’s still something that many people struggle with throughout their lives. Read on as our AFC Urgent Care Knoxville team provides more information on this skin condition. What Exactly Is Eczema? Eczema, also called atopic dermatitis, is a common skin condition marked by itchy and inflamed patches of skin. Read on →