If My Muncie Doctor Misdiagnosed My Flu, Is That Malpractice?

From January 1 to January 3, 2019, Muncie saw the flu claim three lives. This flu season has been anything but mild, which is why visitor restrictions for children’s hospitals were implemented. Delaware County Health Department Administrator Jammie Bane predicted that at the current pace of flu diagnosis, the number of cases is likely to quadruple compared to the number of cases in 2018.

Misdiagnosing the flu can have serious health complications. But can it amount to medical malpractice?

When a Misdiagnosis May Be Malpractice

It’s rare for a flu misdiagnosis to qualify as medical malpractice, but it’s not unheard of. What’s more likely is getting diagnosed with the flu when you’re really suffering from some other disease. Regardless, if your misdiagnosis leads to life-threatening complications, you may have a medical malpractice case. A Muncie medical malpractice attorney can help you determine your next steps.

Do I Really Have the Flu?

According to the Mayo Clinic, some patients can overcome the flu with rest and home self-care measures. If that is the case, a healthy person is expected to battle the flu for about two weeks. However, if the following symptoms worsen, you should see a doctor:

• A fever greater than 100 degrees Fahrenheit
• A runny nose
• Worsening headaches
• A persistent cough or sore throat
• Continual muscle aches, chills, fatigue, and nausea

Who Is at a Higher Risk for Flu Complications?

According to the Mayo Clinic, people who are at a greater risk for health complications from the flu include:

• Children under five years old, especially if two years or younger
• Adults over the age of 65
• Women recently pregnant (within two weeks) or currently pregnant
• Teens under the age of 19 and are receiving long-term aspirin therapy
• People living with chronic health conditions such as asthma, emphysema, diabetes, neuromuscular disease, heart disease, or kidney, liver, or blood disease
• Permanent residents in a long-term care facility
• Individuals with a history of a weakened immune system
• People who identify as an American Indian or Alaskan Native
• Individuals with a body mass index that is 40 or greater

Hire a Muncie Malpractice Attorney

If you’ve suffered after being misdiagnosed, reach out to the attorneys at Hensley Legal Group to see if you have a medical malpractice case. Call or contact us online for a free conversation.