Flu activity is on the rise. Please see the tips below on how to take care for yourself and to keep others healthy.
CBU Health Resources does not have flu vaccines, but you can visit a local walk-in clinic or physician to get vaccinated.
Receiving the vaccine may lessen the severity of the symptoms and help prevent serious complications that might arise from contracting the disease. If symptoms are treated within 24-48 hours of onset, there are anti-viral medications available that shorten the duration & severity of flu symptoms. You will need to call or visit your local physician to confirm a positive flu diagnosis and seek the appropriate treatment medications. If diagnosed with the flu, you are encouraged to contact Health Resources at (901) 321-3260 or email@example.com. Health Resources, along with Residence Life, can help with temporary accommodations while you are sick if you cannot leave campus and do not have a private room.
Know the signs and symptoms of the flu. Symptoms of the flu include fever or chills and cough or sore throat. In addition, symptoms of the flu can include runny nose, body aches, headache, tiredness, diarrhea, or vomiting. Stay home or at your place of residence if you are sick. Staying away from others can prevent others from getting sick too. Here is a short list of things you may want to have on hand to manage the symptoms of the flu:
- fever and pain reducers (helps with fever and pain from body aches)
- cough syrups that contain an expectorant and a cough suppressant
- saline nasal spray (to clear stuffy nasal passages)
- fluids to rehydrate.
The CDC recommends a three-step approach to fighting the flu including obtaining a flu vaccine; secondly, seeking early treatment for symptoms; and finally, using everyday preventative measures as outlined below.
- Avoid close contact with sick people.
- If you get sick with "flu like" symptoms, stay home for at least 24 hours after the fever is gone without the use of fever reducing medications.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
- Wash your hands with soap and water for approximately 20 seconds. If soap and water not available, use an alcohol based hand rub.
- Avoid touching your eyes, mouth and nose. Germs are spread this way.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with the germs like the flu.
- Drink plenty of clear fluids
For more information about the flu, please visit www.cdc.gov/flu.
Heather Harrington, Director of Health Resources, is available between 8:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. every weekday in the lower level of the Thomas Center should you have additional questions or concerns.
LET'S STAY WELL!