Ways to protect yourself from the flu:
• There is still time to get a flu vaccine (85% of the current cases would be covered by the vaccine available). While campus and some area providers have used all of their supply for this year, currently Walgreens in Whitewater still has vaccine and other sources can be found via the [link destination="http://flu.wisconsin.gov" text="flu shot finder"]
• Avoid contact with people who are ill
• Cover your cough by coughing into your arm or a tissue
• Wash your hands
• Also, remember that if you have flu symptoms (fever>100⁰F and cough or sore throat) stay at home until at least 24 hours after symptoms are gone - this will help you recover sooner and protect others from getting sick!
• Visit [link destination="http://www.cdc.gov/flu/pdf/freeresources/updated/fluandyou_upright.pdf" text="this link"] for more information.
You probably have the flu if you are running a fever>100⁰F and have a cough or sore throat and feel much worse than you do when you get a cold. You may also have headaches, body aches and be sick to your stomach.
Most persons with influenza will not need to visit a health care provider.
You do need to call and make an appointment with a health care provider if you:
• Are very short of breath when sitting and relaxing
• Have asthma or other lung or heart problem
• Are sick for more than a week and symptoms are not improving
• Have other symptoms that are worsening
Some things you can do to help you get through the flu are:
• Rest
• Increase fluid intake orally (small amounts frequently, such as 1/4 cup every 15-20 minutes, if you are sick to your stomach)
• Use acetaminophen or ibuprofen for aches, sore throat and fever
• Use a dextromethoraphan containing cough syrup or honey in a warm beverage for cough.
You can find more information on [link destination="http://flu.wisconsin.gov" text="the State of Wisconsin website"] and at the [link destination="http://www.cdc.gov/flu" text="Centers for Disease Control and Prevention site"].