Purdue urges students to prepare for flu season's peak ahead of winter break
December 4, 2014
WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. – As students prepare to take final exams and leave campus for winter break, Purdue University health officials are urging everyone to prepare for the peak of flu season.
The seasonal flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus. Approximately 5 to 20 percent of people nationwide contract the flu each year, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Flu season typically starts in the fall and peaks in January or February, just as the spring semester will get underway.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says the best way to protect oneself from the influenza virus is to get vaccinated. Vaccinations are still available to Purdue students on the West Lafayette campus. Students may receive the flu vaccine at the Purdue University Student Health Center.
In addition to the vaccine, the CDC advises the public to take everyday preventative actions to help protect from contracting the flu:
* Wash your hands often.
* Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth because germs spread this way.
* Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
* Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
* If you do become sick with the flu virus, stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone without the use of fever-reducing medicine.
"When students return to Purdue in January for the spring semester, we expect to be entering the height of flu season. The Student Health Center typically sees an increase in patients complaining of flu like symptoms around this time. This is why we want to remind students to get their flu shot now," said Dr. Sarah Sayger, PUSH medical director.
Students with questions or who would like to make an appointment to receive the flu vaccine or see a health provider can contact PUSH at 765-494-1700. Appointments can also be made online.
Writer: Liz Evans, 765-494-2084, lizevans@purdue.edu
Sources: Dr. Sarah Sayger, 765-494-1700, sasayger@purdue.edu
