The NJCU Health & Wellness Center seeing a spike in patients with seasonal influenza (flu) symptoms

February 7, 2008

HEALTH ADVISORY

The NJCU Health & Wellness Center has been seeing an increased incidence of cases of patients with signs and symptoms of seasonal influenza (flu) or flu-like symptoms. This is not a pandemic, but rather an increase in the “normal” cases of seasonal flu typically seen at this time of the year.

Flu-like symptoms include a high fever, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, and chills.

People who are sick with the flu should see their medical provider for treatment. Prescription antiviral drugs (If taken within two days of getting sick) can shorten the course of the illness and may reduce the intensity of the symptoms. These medications may or may not be recommended by your health care provider following your examination.

NJCU students are welcome to be seen by the Health & Wellness physician on Mondays and Thursdays. Sign-ins for the physician are from 12pm – 2pm on Monday and Thursday. There is no charge for the office visit, but the student is responsible for the cost of any prescription medications. NJCU employees are NOT eligible to be seen by the physician and should seek care by their own physician.

Flu Prevention Tips

• Avoid close contact. Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.
• Stay home when you are sick. Social distancing is key in avoiding the spread of the flu. It is important to stay home from work, school, and errands when you are sick. You will help prevent others from catching your illness as well as hasten your own recovery.
• Cover your mouth and nose. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.
• Clean your hands. Washing your hands often will help protect you and others from germs.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.
• Practice other good health habits. Get plenty of sleep, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food.