Recognize the Symptoms: Symptoms of influenza include cough, sore throat, runny or congested nose, body aches, headaches, fatigue, and sometimes fever and vomiting. While flu symptoms are often similar to cold symptoms, a key difference is the sudden onset experienced with the flu. If you suddenly experience some or all of these symptoms, you may be contagious. Stay home and rest, so you can heal and avoid spreading the flu. If you suspect that one of your friends has the flu, encourage him/her to limit contact with people, as well.
- Prevention Strategies: Get vaccinated as soon as possible, starting in October! Vaccines are available at UHS and CVS. Wash your hands often with warm soapy water. Avoid contact with people who are sick, and thoroughly clean shared dishes, utensils, and household surfaces. Avoid touching your face—particularly your eyes, mouth, and nose. Cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze, and encourage others to do the same.
- Take care of yourself & others: People who have the flu may remain contagious for up to seven days after the sickness begins, even if symptoms have begun to subside; keep this in mind before declaring yourself fully recovered. Be willing and able to recognize when taking care of yourself at home is not enough. Check out this link for some helpful guidelines from UHS regarding when to seek medical help.
More information on managing your health during cold and flu season, can be found on the following websites: \http://www.cdc.gov/flu/keyfacts.htm & http://www.uhs.umich.edu/coldsflu
Contributed by Marissa Nazareno