The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs. 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.  SWU’s insurance (Blue Choice) covers the flu vaccine at 100%.  You can receive the flu shot at any local pharmacy (CVS, Walgreen’s, Walmart, etc.) or at your family physician’s office.  Now is the best time to receive the vaccine. 

Signs and symptoms of flu:

• Fever/chills 
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Body aches
• Headache
• Fatigue
• Some people do have vomiting and diarrhea (this is more common in children than adults)

Everyday preventive actions to stop the spread of germs:

1. Avoid close contact with sick people.
2. While sick, limit contact with others as much as possible to keep from infecting them.
3. If you are sick with flu-like illness the CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after you are fever free (without the use of fever reducing medications).
4. Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.  Throw away the tissue immediately after using it. 
5. Wash your hands often with soap and water (sing happy birthday twice to yourself) and thoroughly dry your hands.  If soap and water are unavailable use an alcohol based hand sanitizer. 
6. Avoid touching your face – eyes, nose and mouth.  Germs spread this way!
7. Don’t share drinks, food with others. 

I will be updating the Health Center page on mySWU with information regarding the flu and any other pertinent information in regards to other germs that may be invading campus.  There will not be multiple all employee emails please check mySWU for further information regarding the flu.

https://my.swu.edu/ICS/Campus_Life/Health_Center/

https://www.cdc.gov/flu/index.htm

If you have questions or concerns please feel free to contact me. 

Stay well!