INFLUENZA
STUDENT INFORMATION SHEET

 

Influenza, (or the "flu"), is a viral infection of the respiratory tract which usually occurs from about November to April each year. Unlike many illnesses, one attack does not necessarily confer immunity, so it is possible to get the "flu" more than once. The virus is spread from person to person by direct or indirect contact. Individuals are most infectious for 24 hours before and after the onset of symptoms. It usually takes 1 - 3 days to come down with the illness after being infected.

Symptoms include:

  • sudden onset of fever
  • chills
  • headache
  • lack of appetite
  • muscle aches
  • fatigue
  • sore throat
  • cough

Not all of these symptoms occur in everyone. You may not feel "up to par" for a week or more following the acute stage of this illness. As your fever and acute symptoms subside, your nose may become stuffy and your cough may worsen.

Treatment: Antibiotics do not play a part in the treatment of uncomplicated "flu."

  • Rest as much as possible until your fever has returned to normal for 24 hours
  • drink plenty of fluids (water, juice, herbal/non-caffeinated tea - at least 8 glasses daily). Solid food may be taken if you have an appetite.
  • warm salt water gargles (1/4 teaspoon of salt in a full glass of warm water) 4 - 6 times a day to relieve sore throat symptoms
  • over the counter medications to reduce fever, generalized aches, and cough may be helpful and should only be taken if not allergic to, and after reading the labels carefully. Keep in mind Aspirin is not recommended with viral illnesses.

Prevention:

  • getting enough sleep each night, at least 7-8 hours
  • eating a well balanced diet
  • reducing your stress
  • washing your hands frequently, especially after contact with someone who has been ill
  • getting the Influenza Vaccine

The influenza vaccine is recommended for:

  • healthy persons age 50 or over,
  • persons with chronic medical conditions such as diabetes, asthma, chronic lung disease, or renal dysfunction
  • anyone with weakened immune systems (due to HIV/AIDS or another disease that affects the immune system, long term treatment with drugs such as steroids, and cancer treatments with x-rays or drugs)
  • those on long term aspirin therapy ages 6 months to 18 years (potential to develop Reye Syndrome if they catch the flu)
  • pregnant women who will be past the 3rd month of pregnancy during the flu season
  • those living in close community settings such as dormitory housing
  • physicians, nurses, family members, or anyone else coming in close contact with people at risk of serious influenza
  • anyone who wants to reduce their chance of catching influenza

The vaccine will begin to provide protection approximately two weeks after receiving it. Immunity decreases over several months - that's why it is important to get the flu shot yearly. Flu shots will not fully protect all persons who receive it against the flu, and it will not protect anyone against other illnesses that resemble the "flu". Most people have no problem with the vaccine. Some people may complain of soreness, redness, slight swelling at the site, fever and/or achiness for a day or two. It is important to know that the vaccine contains killed viruses, so you cannot get influenza from the vaccine.

Contraindication:

  • anyone who has an allergy to eggs
  • who had a serious allergic reaction to the vaccine in the past
  • has ever been paralyzed with Guillain-Barre syndrome should not receive the flu vaccine

    Where to get Influenza Vaccine:

    Health Services provides the flu vaccine to students, to employees, and Professor Emeriti for a $10.00 fee that is payable at the time of the appointment. Most insurances do not cover this vaccine, including the Student Health Insurance. Anyone who wishes to receive the vaccine may call extension 2823 for an appointment at Health Services beginning mid-October. The best time to receive the vaccine is mid-October through November, but it will continue to be available through spring semester while supplies last.

    If you have a fever or a severe illness the day you are scheduled to receive the vaccine - you should call and reschedule your appointment for a time when you are feeling better.

    10/10/02 -schs/eml
    10/9/05 - revised

 

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Smith College Health Services // Northampton, Massachusetts 01063 // (413) 585-2800