Spring 2018 Influenza Season

Mon, 29 Jan 2018 11:01:29 -0500

I'm reaching out to raise your awareness of this year’s influenza (flu) season. According to the CDC and the Maryland Department of Health and Hygiene, there has been widespread flu around the country and the state, and University Health Services has documented cases of influenza on campus since November 2017. The flu is a respiratory illness with sudden onset of symptoms that can include a fever of over 100ºF, body aches, sore throat, headache, and cough.

This is an important time for us all to take some simple actions to protect ourselves and minimize the impact of the flu on our community.

Get a flu shot, it is not too late! UHS gave out 450 flu shots this season and while we do not have any more shots, they are available throughout the community.

Wash your hands frequently and use hand sanitizing stations located around campus.

Avoid those who are ill, if you can.

Clean surfaces that you or others touch frequently in your room and/or office with anti-bacterial cleaner (bleach wipes are effective).

Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. If you don't have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve--not your hands--and wash your hands immediately.

Avoid touching your face, whether you are ill or healthy; it spreads germs.

Avoid sharing food, utensils, cups, and water bottles.

The treatment for influenza for healthy people is mostly “supportive,” meaning rest, plenty of fluids, and fever-reducing medication as needed. Antiviral medications may be indicated, especially for students, faculty, and staff who have chronic medical problems (e.g., asthma or diabetes) and can be discussed with your primary care provider. Antiviral medications are most effective if started the within 48 hours of developing flu symptoms.

If you are sick, stay home and in bed. Avoid crowded places like dining halls, classrooms, restaurants, and the RAC or other fitness centers to prevent spreading illness to others. If you are sick, ask a friend to care for you.

Take fever reducers like acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil), or naproxen (Aleve) if you do have a fever. If your fever persists for more than three days in spite of taking these medications, please seek medical care.

Drink lots of fluids.

If you have been diagnosed with the flu and develop shortness of breath and severe fatigue, call your health care provider or go to an emergency room.

University Health Services is here to answer any questions you may have. Please feel free to contact us at 410-455-2542 for medical advice or further instructions and information. For more information about the flu, visit the Maryland Department of Health website.

Bruce Herman, Director, University Health Services and Counseling