24/7 FLU CARE
Influenza (Flu) ER in Houston — 24/7 Emergency Evaluation
If you or your child has flu symptoms with trouble breathing, a very high or persistent fever, dehydration, chest pain, or confusion, The Heights Emergency Room in Houston is open 24/7 for evaluation. A board-certified emergency physician examines you and checks your breathing, hydration, and oxygen level. Walk in anytime.
Open 24/7 • Walk-Ins Welcome • No Appointment Required
WHAT WE OFFER
Emergency Flu Care for Adults and Children, Day or Night
Open 24/7, Even Holidays
Flu complications don’t wait for office hours. We are open every hour of every day.
Walk-Ins Welcome
No appointment or referral is needed for emergency evaluation.
Physician Evaluation
A board-certified emergency physician checks your fever, breathing, and hydration.
Oxygen & Chest Checks
Pulse oximetry, oxygen, and chest X-rays when needed.
IV Fluids
Fluids are available if you are dehydrated and can’t keep liquids down.
Near Houston Heights
101 N Loop W #300, Houston, TX 77018, on the North Loop.
Most people recover from the flu at home, but some develop complications. Know the warning signs.
WHEN TO COME IN
When Is the Flu an Emergency?
The flu becomes an emergency when it causes trouble breathing, chest pain, confusion, severe dehydration, or a fever that won’t come down. Adults 65 and older, pregnant women, young children, and people with asthma, diabetes, heart or lung disease, or weak immune systems are at higher risk of complications and should be evaluated early.
Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by flu viruses. It usually starts suddenly with fever, chills, body aches, headache, fatigue, and cough, and it tends to feel more severe than a common cold. Symptoms usually peak in the first few days and improve over a week or so.
Complications include pneumonia, dehydration, and worsening of existing conditions such as asthma or heart disease. Because flu symptoms overlap with other infections, an exam helps decide what level of care you need.
Get emergency care for the flu with:
- Trouble breathing or fast breathing
- Chest pain or pressure
- A fever that stays high or returns after improving
- Signs of dehydration, such as dizziness or very little urine
- Confusion, drowsiness, or trouble waking
- Persistent vomiting that prevents drinking
- A worsening cough with fever after you felt better
- A newborn or baby with a fever
PATIENT REVIEWS
What Patients Say About The Heights Emergency Room
4.7
★★★★★
Based on 664 Google reviews (as of October 2026)
Patients frequently mention a welcoming atmosphere and a clean facility.
E
Erika M. on Google
★★★★★
My sister went into anaphylactic shock while at work and her airway started to close. When we walked in the receptionist took one look at her swelling and ushered us to a medical suite. … I am immensely grateful to the care staff here. Their professionalism and efficiency went a long way to keep my sister calm during the whole process.
K
Kendi on Google
★★★★★
I had a great experience at The Heights Emergency Room after a head injury. … Dr. Zahid was very thorough in his evaluation and took the time to explain everything clearly. … I’m very grateful for the excellent care I received and would highly recommend The Heights Emergency Room!
A
Ahson W. on Google
★★★★★
Very good service. I brought my son here and they very quickly attended to him. … Abdullah took my son’s blood and Pablo administered the CT scan. … Dr. Khan explained the results thoroughly and professionally.
M
Michelle R. on Google
★★★★★
I had a great experience at this ER. The facility was very clean, and the staff was attentive, professional, and compassionate. They took the time to listen to my concerns and made sure all of my needs were addressed. I felt well cared for throughout my visit.
S
Samantha M. on Google
★★★★★
The staff here are amazing!! I had an embarrassing and painful health issue. … This staff made me feel so comfortable and supported through the pain, I didn’t feel embarrassed. … I left feeling heard, educated, and 1000% better!
Need emergency care now?
The Heights Emergency Room is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including holidays. No appointment needed.
Reviews reflect individual patient experiences; care and outcomes vary.
Flu Symptoms Getting Worse?
The Heights Emergency Room is open 24/7 for flu evaluation, with no appointment needed.
For severe breathing trouble or confusion, call 911.
On This Page
Flu Symptoms? We’re Open 24/7
Emergency evaluation is available day and night at The Heights Emergency Room.
What to Do While You Wait
Rest and fluids help most.
Comfort measures
- Rest and stay home to avoid spreading the flu
- Drink small, frequent sips of water or clear fluids
- Use fever and pain relievers as directed on the label
- Use a cool-mist humidifier or a warm shower for congestion
- Cover coughs and wash hands often
- Bring a list of medications and any allergies
Never give aspirin to children or teens with flu symptoms. Ask a physician before giving any medicine to a baby.
Flu vs Cold vs COVID-19
Symptoms overlap.
The flu tends to start suddenly with fever, chills, and body aches, while a cold is milder and starts gradually with sneezing and a runny nose. COVID-19 can look much like the flu, and a test is the only reliable way to tell them apart.
Our cold and flu page compares symptoms in more detail.
Flu in Children and Babies
Young children can get sicker faster.
Children may have a high fever, cough, sore throat, vomiting, or diarrhea with the flu. Babies may be unusually sleepy, refuse feeding, or have fewer wet diapers. A fever in a baby younger than three months always needs prompt medical evaluation.
Our dedicated pediatric room is available for children. See our pediatric ER page for what to expect.
Older Adults, Pregnancy, and Chronic Illness
Higher risk for complications.
Older adults, pregnant people, and people with asthma, diabetes, heart disease, lung disease, or weak immune systems are more likely to develop pneumonia or other complications. They should seek care early rather than waiting for symptoms to become severe.
For breathing symptoms, see our shortness of breath ER page.
WHEN IT’S MORE SERIOUS
Flu Complications That Need Prompt Care
Most flu cases improve, but some get worse.
Flu can lead to pneumonia, which causes a worsening cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, or a fever that returns after a period of improvement. It can also cause dehydration from fever, vomiting, and poor drinking, and it can worsen asthma or heart conditions.
Rarely, flu leads to serious problems such as inflammation of the heart or brain. Confusion, a seizure, severe weakness, or chest pain are reasons to get immediate care.
YOUR ER VISIT
What Happens When You Visit the ER for the Flu?
The physician reviews your symptoms and risk factors, checks your temperature, oxygen level, and vital signs, and listens to your breathing.
Exam & Vital Signs
Temperature, heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen level are checked.
Chest & Oxygen Checks
A chest X-ray and oxygen support are available when the physician advises them.
Fluids & Treatment
IV fluids and a treatment plan, which may include prescribed medication, are provided when appropriate.
Patients who need hospital admission or specialist care are transferred, and our staff arranges ambulance transport.
How Does the Flu Spread?
Influenza spreads mainly through:
Droplets
Coughs, sneezes, and talking spread tiny droplets.
Contaminated Surfaces
Touching a surface and then your face.
Close Contact
Homes, schools, workplaces, and crowded places.
Flu Season
Cases rise in fall and winter.
This list is general information. Annual flu vaccination and hand washing are the best ways to lower your risk.
QUICK ANSWERS
Flu Questions, Answered
When should I go to the ER for the flu?
Go to the ER for trouble breathing, chest pain, confusion, severe dehydration, persistent vomiting, or a fever that won’t come down. Get care early if you are 65 or older, pregnant, or have asthma, diabetes, or heart or lung disease. Call 911 for severe breathing trouble. We are open 24/7.
How long does the flu last?
Most people feel better within about a week, though cough and tiredness can last two weeks or longer. Fever usually lasts three to four days. If your fever returns, your cough gets worse after you felt better, or you have trouble breathing, get medical care because these can signal pneumonia.
Does The Heights Emergency Room treat the flu?
Yes. The Heights Emergency Room at 101 N Loop W #300, Houston, TX 77018, is open 24/7 and treats adults and children with flu symptoms and complications. A board-certified emergency physician checks your breathing, oxygen level, and hydration, and IV fluids are available. No appointment is needed.
Can the flu cause pneumonia?
Yes. Influenza can lead to pneumonia, either from the flu virus itself or from a bacterial infection that follows. Warning signs include a worsening cough, chest pain, shortness of breath, and a fever that returns after improving. Older adults and people with chronic conditions are at higher risk, so don’t wait if symptoms worsen.
How can I prevent spreading the flu to my family?
Stay home until your fever has been gone for at least 24 hours without fever-reducing medicine. Cover coughs, wash hands often, avoid sharing cups and towels, and keep sick family members in a separate room when possible. Wear a mask around vulnerable people.
EMERGENCY SAFETY
When Should You Call 911 for the Flu?
Call 911 if flu symptoms cause severe breathing trouble or signs of a life-threatening problem.
Call 911 for:
- Severe trouble breathing
- Blue or gray lips or face
- Chest pain or pressure
- Confusion or trouble waking
- A seizure
- Fainting or a very fast heartbeat
- A baby who is limp or won’t feed
- Fever with a stiff neck or rash
Paramedics can check oxygen levels, give oxygen, and start care on the way to the ER.
Don’t drive if you are struggling to breathe, confused, or lightheaded.
WHERE TO GO
ER vs Urgent Care for the Flu
Mild flu can often be managed at home or seen by your doctor or an urgent care center. Go to an ER when symptoms are severe or you are at higher risk for complications.
Call 911
- Severe trouble breathing
- Blue or gray lips
- Confusion or a seizure
- Chest pain or pressure
Go to the ER
- Trouble breathing or fast breathing
- A fever that won’t come down
- Signs of dehydration
- Worsening symptoms after improving
Urgent Care or Your Doctor
- Mild fever, aches, and cough
- Questions about medicines
- Follow-up after an ER visit
If you are unsure, choose the ER.
Learn more about the difference between urgent care and the ER.
24/7 Flu Care in Houston
Flu complications can develop at any hour. The Heights Emergency Room is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including holidays.
Emergency Physician Exam
Evaluation of your symptoms.
Oxygen & Pulse Oximetry
Oxygen level checks.
Chest X-Ray
When pneumonia is a concern.
IV Fluids
For dehydration.
Lab Testing
When the physician advises it.
Pediatric Room
Dedicated space for children.
Testing and treatment depend on your symptoms and the physician’s evaluation.
Flu ER Near Houston Heights
The Heights Emergency Room is a freestanding emergency room at 101 N Loop W #300, Houston, TX 77018, along the North Loop (610). It is open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for adults and children with influenza and flu symptoms and can be reached at (281) 560-4373.
The Heights Emergency Room
101 N Loop W #300
Houston, TX 77018
Houston, TX 77018
Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
If you are searching for:
- Flu ER near me
- Emergency room for flu Houston
- Influenza emergency room near Houston Heights
- Child flu symptoms ER Houston
The Heights Emergency Room is open day and night for flu evaluation.
Serving Houston Heights and Nearby Neighborhoods
Patients with influenza or flu symptoms come to us from across central and northwest Houston—including Garden Oaks, Oak Forest, Houston Heights, Timbergrove, Woodland Heights, Independence Heights, the Northside, Rice Military, the Washington Avenue corridor, First Ward, and Downtown. If flu symptoms are getting worse or you are at higher risk, come to our North Loop location, a short drive from many of these neighborhoods.
ZIP 77018
Garden Oaks, Oak Forest, and Independence Heights / Central Northwest
ZIP 77008
Houston Heights, Lazybrook, and Timbergrove
ZIP 77009
Heights East, Northside, and the Woodland Heights area
ZIP 77022
Independence Heights and Northline / Northside
ZIP 77007
Washington Avenue, Rice Military, the western and southern Heights, and First Ward
ZIP 77002
Downtown, northern Downtown, and nearby First Ward areas
Travel times vary with traffic and time of day.
FAQ
Influenza ER — Frequently Asked Questions
Antiviral medicines can shorten the illness for some people, and they work best when started early, usually within the first two days of symptoms. A physician can decide whether one is appropriate based on your symptoms, risk factors, and health history.
The flu usually starts suddenly with fever, chills, body aches, and fatigue, while a cold is milder and gradual, with sneezing and a runny nose. Symptoms overlap, so an exam can help, especially if you are at higher risk.
Generally, wait until your fever has been gone for at least 24 hours without fever-reducing medicine and your symptoms are improving. Follow any workplace or school policies and ask a physician if you are unsure.
Bring a photo ID, a list of current medications and allergies, and a record of your temperature and when symptoms began. For a child, bring details about drinking, wet diapers, and any recent illness.
Go promptly for a fever in a baby younger than three months, a fever with trouble breathing, a stiff neck, a rash, or confusion, or a child who is hard to wake or can’t drink. Call 911 for severe breathing trouble.
No. The Heights Emergency Room is a walk-in emergency room open 24/7. For severe breathing trouble or confusion, call 911.
Medical disclaimer: This page provides general health information and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
Flu Getting Worse? Come In Anytime.
Get evaluated by an emergency physician, day or night, with no appointment needed.
For severe breathing trouble or confusion, call 911.
