Treatment and Prevention of Cold and Flu October 2017

What are symptoms of the flu vs. a cold? Fever Chills Cough Sore throat Runny or stuffy nose Body aches Headache Fatigue More likely to have runny or stuffy nose Milder symptoms Generally doesn’t result in serious health issues

Everyday preventative actions Avoid contact with sick people Wash hands often with soap and water Use an alcohol based hand rub Avoid touching you eyes, nose, and mouth Clean and disinfect surfaces that may be contaminated with germs

Symptoms of the Flu Fever Cough Sore throat Runny or stuffy nose Body aches Headache Chills Fatigue Sometimes diarrhea and vomiting

Flu—High risk individuals If you suffer from the following medical conditions, you are high risk: Asthma Chronic lung disease Heart disease Blood disorders Diabetes Kidney or liver disorders Children younger than 5 Adults 65 and older Pregnant women American Indians and Alaskan Natives

3 ways to fight the flu Get a flu vaccine Take preventative actions to stop the spread of germs Take antiviral drugs if prescribed by a doctor

Emergency warning signs of the Flu in Adults Seek immediate medical attention if you experience any of the following: Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath Pain or pressure in chest or abdomen Sudden dizziness Confusion Severe or persistent vomiting Flu like symptoms that improve but then return with fever and worse cough

You cannot get the flu from a flu shot Vaccines You cannot get the flu from a flu shot Possible side effects: Soreness, redness or swelling at injection site Fever (low grade) Aches

Get your flu shot @ the Student Health Center on Fridays No appointment necessary!