Influenza  --  Flu

Influenza, commonly confused with the "Stomach Flu" or gastroenteritis, is an upper respiratory illness with symptoms of cough, fever, head and body aches, general malaise, and occasionally nausea and vomiting.

If you are experiencing these symptoms you can learn more about flu from the Centers for Disease Control and the Academy of Family Physicians.   

>>>>Academy of Family Physicians Website

>>>>Centers for Disease Control

FLU FACTS

 

Influenza, flu, and colds have similar symptoms except that flu symptoms are much more severe.

• The home treatment is similar for both.
• Flu has a sudden onset…one minute your fine the next you’re feeling bad
• Generally lasts from 7-10 days
• You are considered contagious the day before symptoms begin, while still running a fever, (Febrile) and for up to 4- 7 days after symptoms begin.
• Is not treated with antibiotics, unless secondary infections, such as bronchitis or pneumonia occur.
• Is contagious, spread by droplets by coughing or sneezing, person to person contact such as sharing of utensils, drinks.
• Is also spread by touching surfaces infected by flu virus and then touching the eyes, mouth or nose.  Flu viruses live on surfaces for up to 3 days!
• Most people recover without secondary infections, but for those who are over 65, the very young and those with other health conditions, the flu can be extremely serious.

 Some or all of these “flu like symptoms” may be present

 

• High fever, even as high as 104
• Dry cough, that can become productive
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Headache
• Extreme fatigue and body aches
• Nausea and vomiting and occasionally diarrhea

 

For those who have never experienced the flu,  the severity of the symptoms can be frightening, especially with high fevers.

 

WHAT TO DO IF YOU BECOME ILL

 

Notify your professors, coaches etc. that you have “flu like” symptoms or have been diagnosed with the flu

• Stay at home or in your room until you are fever free (afibrile) and for at least   4 days after your symptoms begin.
• REST
• Drink plenty of fluids, like juice, water, sodas whatever appeals …
• Keep your diet light.  Eat things like jello, clear soups, pastas, bananas, rice no spicy or heavy food as they may contribute to nausea.  Stay away from dairy  products and eggs until you are fever free.  Eat what appeals to you.
• You can take over-the-counter ibuprophen or acetaminophen,  (Advil and Tylenol) for fever, headaches and body aches. 
• If you are coughing, medicines such as Mucinex DM and  Robitussin DM will be helpful.
• Use your own bathroom towel
• Cover your mouth and nose when you cough or sneeze and use an antibacterial hand sanitizer or wash your hands.

 

 

WHEN TO SEEK MEDICAL ATTENTION

 

Viruses must run their course, however if any of the following occur, please call Health and Wellness Services, 757-594-7661 for advice.

 

If you are unable to reach the clinic, please call Ask-A-Nurse 757-594-2000.

 

Get medical advice if:

If you have a fever that is unresponsive to over-the-counter medications

• If you are unable to keep liquids down for over 48 hours
• If you have a medical condition such as diabetes, asthma
• If you were improving but your symptoms become worse after 5 or 6 days
• If you were fever free and suddenly start having a fever
• If you have coughing that is not controlled with over-the-counters, medications, are wheezing, or have shortness of breath

 Please call the member services number on your insurance card to see what off campus options you are authorized to go to. 

 

 

PREVENTION TIPS

 

Get a flu shot

• Stay away from people who are sick
• Keep your hands away from your face
• Wash your hands or use antibacterial lotion
• Get plenty of rest