Flu Season is Approaching

Influenza (the flu) is a serious contagious disease that can lead to hospitalization and even death. The flu spreads easily from person to person. In some cases we can prevent the spread of the illness by a few easy actions. Therefore, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) developed a “Take 3” action plan to protect yourself and others from the illness: 

Take time to get a flu vaccine.

• CDC recommends a yearly flu vaccine as the first and most important step in protecting against flu viruses.
• University Health Services has flu vaccine available. 

Take everyday preventive actions to stop the spread of germs.

• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
• If you are sick with flu-like illness, CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities.
• While sick, limit contact with others as much as possible to keep from infecting them.
• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way.
• Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs like the flu.

Take flu medications if your doctor prescribes them.

• If you get the flu, medications can be prescribed by your health care provider to treat your illness.
• Flu-like symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people also may have vomiting and diarrhea. People may be infected with the flu, and have respiratory symptoms without a fever.