By Breanne Burry, VSN

Flu Season is Here

The flu season is on the verge of peaking. It is important to know how to protect yourself and those around you to reduce your chance of developing flu-like symptoms. The flu is a respiratory illness that is contagious and easily spread through droplets when you sneeze, cough, or even talk. According to the CDC, to protect yourself from the flu follow these three easy steps:

• Get the flu vaccine.
• Use preventative actions to stop the spread of germs.
• See a doctor for antiviral drugs if you develop the flu.

Am I at risk?

Anyone has the potential for developing the flu, even healthy people. People that are at high risk include young children, the elderly, pregnant women, immunocompromised persons, and those living in crowded conditions, which includes means college students.

What to do if you think you have the flu:

Common flu-like symptoms include fever, runny or stuffy nose, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue. People may also experience symptoms such as vomiting and diarrhea. If you begin to experience any of these symptoms it is time to take preventative action to stop the spread of germs. According to the CDC (2013), “People infected with flu may be able to infect others beginning one day before symptoms develop and up to five to seven days after becoming sick.” While sick, you should stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone without the use of any fever-reducing medicine. Limit contact with other people, unless to get medical care. The most optimal time to see the doctor for an antiviral medication is two days after symptoms begin. Antiviral drugs can shorten the length of time you are sick and prevent other complications.

Other ways to prevent the spread of the flu:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or the corner of your elbow when you cough or sneeze.
• Wash your hands often with soap and warm water.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth; they harbor germs.
• Clean and disinfect surfaces that may have become contaminated with flu germs.
• Avoid close contact with those who are sick.

Health services still has the flu vaccine available at no cost to students and $10 for employees. Call 796-3806 or email scdanielson@viterbo.edu.