5 Tips to Staying Healthy During Cold and Flu Season

The university’s top health official urged the campus community to take precautions to avoid flu and cold viruses, after three new cases of adenovirus were confirmed over the Thanksgiving break.
 
None of those students required hospitalization, to the university’s knowledge, Dr. David McBride, University Health Center director, wrote in an email to campus on Monday. it brought the confirmed total in November to nine, including one student who died.
 
While most people recover from adenovirus without major complications, it can be serious for those with chronic medical problems that might compromise their immune systems.
 
McBride explained that because most adenovirus strains are not dangerous to the general population and there’s no specific treatment for them, testing is reserved for situations in which the test results may make a difference to the individual’s care.

That includes those who may require hospitalization or who have clinical or X-ray-proven pneumonia or an underlying illness such as severe asthma, diabetes or immunosuppression.

UMD recommends students, faculty and staff take the following steps to stay healthy this cold and virus season:

• Wash your hands frequently and use the hand sanitizing stations located around campus. Clean all high-touch surfaces such as doorknobs with anti-bacterial product, such as bleach wipes.
• Don’t share food, utensils, water bottles or cups.
• If you are sick, stay home and rest.
• If you’re healthy, avoid those who are ill, if possible.
• Get a flu shot. Flu shots are available at the University Health Center.

If you develop a high fever along with a cough or sore throat and vomiting or diarrhea, visit a physician within 48 hours. For more information, see the University Health Center’s adenovirus resources.