Flu Information

Got your flu shot?

Flu Shots

We are out of flu vaccines for the 2012-2013 academic year.

Printable Flu Flyer:
Flu is Here (PDF) 

Preventing Seasonal Flu

  • Get vaccinated: The single best way to prevent the flu is to get a flu vaccine
  • Wash your hands: Use warm water and soap to wash your hands when they are visibly dirty or use hand sanitizer (available in many buildings on campus)
  • Cough/Sneeze into your sleeve or crook of your elbow: "Why don't we do it in our sleeves?" video
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick

Flu Facts

What is Influenza (Flu)?
The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu vaccine each year.

Symptoms of Flu
People who have the flu often have a sudden onset of some or all of these symptoms:

  • fever* or feeling feverish/chills
  • cough
  • sore throat
  • runny or stuffy nose
  • muscle or body aches
  • headaches
  • fatigue (very tired)
  • Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults

*It’s important to note that not everyone with flu will have a fever.

How Flu Spreads
Most experts believe that flu viruses spread mainly by droplets made when people with flu cough, sneeze or talk. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby. Less often, a person might also get flu by touching a surface or object that has flu virus on it and then touching their own mouth, eyes or nose.

Who Should Get Vaccinated?
On February 24, 2010 vaccine experts voted that everyone 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine each year starting with the 2010-2011 influenza season. CDC's Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) voted for "universal" flu vaccination in the U.S. to expand protection against the flu to more people. While everyone should get a flu vaccine each flu season, it’s especially important that certain people get vaccinated either because they are at high risk of having serious flu-related complications or because they live with or care for people at high risk for developing flu-related complications.

Resources