Flu viruses are thought to spread mainly from person to person through coughing, sneezing or talking with someone infected with the virus. The virus may also spread when people touch objects with the virus on it and then touch their mouth, nose or eyes. People with the flu may be able to infect others beginning one day BEFORE symptoms develop and up to 5-7 days AFTER becoming sick.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water. (If not available, then use alcohol-based hand sanitizer — sanitizer stations are located across campus)
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
- Try to avoid contact with sick people.
- Get a flu shot! Check with the local Health Department (901) 222-9331 for FREE flu vaccines. Free shots are available while supplies last. The clinic closest to CBU is located at 814 Jefferson Ave., Room 216. Hours are 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.
SYMPTOMS OF THE FLU:
- Fever of 100.0 or higher (but you don’t always have a fever)
- Cough and/or sore throat
- Headaches, body aches and/or chills
- Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
Flu and the common cold are similar, but the flu is much worse than a common cold.
- Fever, body aches, tiredness and cough are more intense with the flu.
- People with colds are more likely to have: a runny or stuffy nose.
CBU does not provide flu testing — this is available at your local doctor, minor medical center or walk-in clinics. However, we can provide you with any information or over-the-counter medications. The flu is a VIRUS, so antibiotics are NOT used to treat the flu. See your health care provider immediately if you've been infected. Some may choose to treat it with anti-viral drugs such as Tamiflu if diagnosed within 48 hours. If you do have a fever, you must be fever-free for 24 hours without any type of fever medication before returning to the classroom. This will help us prevent the spread of the flu!
If you need any additional information, please feel free to stop by the Health Services office or visit www.cdc.gov/flu.
LET'S STAY WELL!