Are you experiencing fevers, headaches, muscle aches, sore throat, dry cough or nasal congestion? You may have the flu.

   Seasonal influenza epidemics usually occur during the winter months in temperate zones. Seasonal influenza activity in the U.S. generally peaks in early March and declines in May.

   Did you know that more than 200,000 people are hospitalized from complications from the flu with approximately 36,000 deaths annually? According to the Center for Disease Control (CDC), the risks for complications and deaths from seasonal influenza are higher among persons with certain underlying health conditions, such as asthma, persons older than 65 and young children. Therefore, persons in these groups are strongly urged to obtain the flu vaccine yearly.

    The influenza vaccine is the primary method for preventing seasonal influenza and its severe complications. The optimal time for vaccination is usually during October to November.  Many people don’t obtain the flu vaccine because they think they will get the flu from the vaccine. The fact is, inactivated influenza vaccine contains killed viruses and cannot produce signs or symptoms of influenza virus infection. New vaccines are needed each year due to gradual changes in the flu viruses.

    Human influenza viruses are generally spread from person to person when infected persons cough or sneeze sending virus-laden droplets into the upper respiratory tracts of susceptible persons who are within 3 feet. Transmission also may occur through direct or indirect contact with respiratory secretions such as touching surfaces contaminated with influenza viruses and then touching the eyes, nose or mouth. Doorknobs, gym equipment and shopping carts may be unknowing carriers of influenza virus particles.

    Other than obtaining the influenza vaccine, what else can one do to minimize the risk of acquiring influenza? Keep your immune system healthy with good lifestyle habits such as good sleep practices, healthy diet and exercise. Stay away from sick people and remind them to cough or sneeze into a tissue. Wash your hands frequently.

    If you have contracted influenza, it is advisable to stay home and sleep, drink plenty of fluids and try not to expose family members or roommates to your symptoms. Symptomatic management to control uncomfortable flu symptoms may include fever-reducing medications such as Ibuprofen, decongestants or expectorants. Antibiotics are not indicated for viral illnesses.

     The Student Health and Counseling Service provides flu vaccine clinics annually during the months of October and November. Flyers are posted advertising clinic dates, times and prices. Our website is another source of information for information about flu clinics and other services.

    Please schedule an appointment with one of our medical providers if you have questions or concerns about the flu.