Please be aware that the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has advised that this year’s flu season will be more active than in years past. Remember, it is not too late to vaccinate. Flu vaccines are available in the Student Health Center.
We encourage students who appear ill to:
- Visit the Student Health Center in Landon 104
- Learn ways to prevent the spread of the virus.
- Physically distance yourself from others who are coughing or sneezing or who do not look well.
- Wash your hands thoroughly several times a day.
We will continue to communicate regularly with our students about this public health challenge. We also encourage you to visit www.FLU.gov where you will find updates and links to additional resources on the Web.
Thank you for your cooperation.
The Staff of the Student Health Center
Below is a chart to determine a Cold from the Flu for your reference.
SYMPTOM | COLD | FLU |
Fever | Normal | Unusual; high (100ºF - 102ºF) |
Headache | Not usually | Usual and expected |
General Aches, Pains | Mild | Usual, often severe |
Fatigue, Weakness | Sometimes | Usual; up to 2-3 weeks |
Extreme Exhaustion | Never | Usual; at beginning |
Stuffy Nose | Most common symptom | Sometimes |
Sneezing | Usual | Sometimes |
Sore Throat | Mild to moderate | Sometimes |
Chest Discomfort, Cough | Mild-Moderate cough usually non productive | Common, can be severe |
Treatment | Antihistamines, Decongestant Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory meds | Antiviral medicines - See your doctor |
Prevention | Wash hands often, Avoid close contact - anyone with a cold | Annual vaccination, antiviral medicines - See your doctor |
Complications | Sinus congestion, Middle ear infection, Asthma | Bronchitis, Pneumonia, Can be life threatening |