Fall is officially here, which means colder weather, holidays and flu season.
The LSU Student Health Center has prepared ways University students can prevent the flu. Free flu shots are available to all full-time students who have paid the Student Health Fee, while supplies last.
Associate Director of the LSU Student Health Center Julie Hupperich said the vaccine might not prevent the flu, but it is still important to get one.
“While there are many different flu viruses, the flu vaccine protects against the four main strains that research indicates will cause the most illness during the flu season,” Hupperich said.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention provides the three main ways to fight the flu:
1. Get Vaccinated
Although many are not fans of needles, the flu shot is highly recommended by the CDC this year. In previous years, the nasal spray was a good alternative to the shot, but this year, the CDC says the nasal spray should not be used because of concerns about its effectiveness.
The vaccination can make flu symptoms less severe. The CDC also put to rest the misconception that the vaccine can cause the flu. Flu vaccines are made from either “inactivated” viruses or no flu viruses at all. Remember, the Student Health Center only provides free vaccinations while supplies last, so if you plan on getting the flu shot, get it as soon as you can.
2. Stop Germs
You might love your friends and family, but if they are sick, the CDC recommends that you steer clear of them to avoid catching or spreading the virus. Washing your hands with soap and water as often as possible is another way to prevent the spread of germs.
If you get the flu, the CDC urges you to stay home for at least 24 un-medicated hours after you no longer have a fever. This means do not go to class. Visit a doctor to get a note to excuse you, because sitting in class with the flu is miserable for you and can infect others as well.
3. Take the Medicine your Doctor Prescribes
Visit a doctor as soon as possible if you have flu-like symptoms. The Student Health Center is equipped and available to all full-time students, so don’t wait until you feel sick. When you receive a prescription from a doctor, take it and finish it.
The CDC says the antiviral medication normally prescribed by doctors works best when taken within 48 hours of getting sick.
The Student Health Center has yet to receive any flu cases, but it is still early in the season. If you would like to get vaccinated, visit the LSU Student Health Center website to find out the times, dates and locations of free vaccinations.