Flu Illness Uptick: Health Tips and Reminders

University Health Center Director Spyridon S. Marinopoulos sent the following message to the campus community on Friday:

With the fall semester well underway, we have entered peak season for colds, flu and other respiratory illnesses. Flu cases are increasing. Last week, the University Health Center (UHC) saw more patients with the flu, primarily Influenza A. 

The flu is a contagious respiratory illness that typically comes on suddenly with high fever, body aches, headache and cough.

Here are some ways to protect yourself and others:

• Be a healthy Terp and get a flu shot. It is not too late. The UHC has flu shots available.
• Wear a mask if you are experiencing cold symptoms.
• Cough into your sleeve or a tissue, not directly into your hands, and wash your hands immediately.
• Keep your distance from people who are sick.
• Wash your hands frequently or use hand sanitizer.
• Clean high-touch surfaces with antibacterial cleaner.
• Avoid touching your face, as this spreads germs.
• Avoid sharing food, utensils, cups and water bottles.

Flu Treatments

Most otherwise healthy people can manage the flu with rest, plenty of fluids, such as water, and fever-reducing medicine. Some people may need antiviral medication. Flu antiviral medicines work best when started early, ideally within two days after your flu symptoms begin. Please consult your personal physician or visit the UHC to determine if this type of medication is right for you.

Students, faculty and staff who have chronic medical conditions or are immunocompromised should visit the UHC or their personal physician soon after developing flu symptoms.

Here are some additional tips:

• If you are sick, stay home. Avoid crowded places like dining halls, classrooms and restaurants to prevent spreading your germs to others.
• Take fever reducers like acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Aleve) if you have a fever. If your fever lasts more than three days despite fever reducers, please see a healthcare provider.
• Drink plenty of fluids, such as water.

Contact the UHC at 301-314-8184 for medical advice if you are unsure what to do after reading this information. We are here to answer any questions you may have.

For more information on the flu, please visit the CDC website.

Sincerely,