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McNEESE STATE UNIVERSITY

Flu Season

Flu Season

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) recommends that everyone 6 months and older get a yearly flu vaccination. It is not too late to get the flu vaccine this year and you should check with your healthcare provider for guidance. Getting the flu vaccine does not guarantee that you will not get the flu, but the duration and symptoms should be greatly reduced.
 

Steps to help prevent the flu

  • Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. Germs spread this way.
  • Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
  • If you are sick with flu-like illness, the CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone, except to get medical care or for other necessities. (Your fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.)
  • While sick, limit contact with others as much as possible to keep from infecting them.

Flu-like symptoms include

  • Fever
  • Cough
  • Sore throat
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Body aches
  • Headache
  • Chills and
  • Fatigue

Some people may also have vomiting and diarrhea. People may be infected with the flu and have respiratory symptoms without a fever.

If you get the flu or have flu-like symptoms, stay home from school or work and contact your health care provider.

Studies show that antiviral drugs for influenza are most effective when initiated within 2 days of illness onset, but starting later can still be beneficial, especially if the patient has a high-risk condition or is severely ill. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking this drug.

For more information on seasonal influenza, visit the CDC website at www.cdc.gov/flu or the Louisiana Health and Hospitals website at www.flu.gov.

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Headshot of Anna Grace Bizzle

Anna Grace Bizzle

Ms. Anna Grace Bizzle is an Academic Advisor for the College of Nursing and Health Professions. She earned her Bachelor’s and Master's degrees in Secondary Education from Mississippi State University. Her favorite part of advising at McNeese is being a resource for students as they get used to the expectations of college and helping students pursue their degrees at such a wonderful school.

ADVISOR FOR:
  • College of Nursing and Health Professions