Flu activity is currently quite high across the country, and we’ve had a number of confirmed cases this week on campus. Below are some basic tips to prevent the spread of this illness.
Health Tips:
- Wash hands frequently (soap and water, or waterless hand sanitizer).
- Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing (best to “catch” in your elbow).
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Eat well.
- Get rest.
- Don’t smoke.
- Disinfect frequently touched surfaces such as door handles, phones, computers, etc.
If you get the flu (high fever, achiness, coughing):
- Stay out of crowds, and from work or school until at least 24 hours after your fever is gone.
- Avoid kissing, hugging, and sharing cups, eating utensils, etc.
- Call your doctor’s office.
- Take Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen for fever and/or achiness.
- Drink fluids and eat bland foods.
If you have not yet had a flu shot, it may still be helpful to get one. They are available at your doctor’s office, your local pharmacy, or the Student Health Center. For more information, please see the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s “Take 3 Actions to Fight the Flu.”
Sincerely,
Merrill L. Miller, M.D.
University Physician
Director, Student Health Services