| Healthy
Living Tips for College Students on the Go: How to fight
off influenza
By Heather Maile
February 22, 2008 | LOGAN-- Are you
one of those lucky few who have not caught the horrible
flu bug yet? It is a serious issue right now, especially
among college students who live so close to one another.
Did you get a flu shot, but still got caught with the
bug? Below you'll find some tips to avoid influenza
if someone around you has it, or if you are the unfortunate
who has it…there are some tips to help getting over
it a little less painful.
Dr. Jim Davis, Director of the Student
Health and Wellness Center suggested everyone should
get a flu shot. It is not too late if you haven't already
been exposed to Influenza this season. Dr. Davis said
that the majority of the flu cases that they are seeing
are from the Type A Influenza which is what the flu
shot typically can cover.
Dr. Davis also mentioned that good
hand washing is a good personal protective measure.
This will help to control and prevent further outbreak.
It would be beneficial to keep some antibacterial wipes
on hand along with a little bottle of antibacterial
gel. Wipe down anything those germy hands touch. This
is also very important if you have the flu to try to
stay up on sanitizing everything. Dr. Davis also said
that staying away from known illness and covering your
mouth are great protections against the flu. The Center
for Disease Control has a very informative website
that will keep you updated on the latest with Influenza.
If you have the flu, be courteous
of those around you. Try to stay as far away as possible.
Masks are available at most health clinics to help you
keep your germs to yourself. Next, be patient and rest
as often as possible. This is the best way to pass the
sickness through your system. It will take a few days,
but rest is the key to getting better. Also, drink a
lot of liquid. Where you probably don't have an appetite
to eat, Gatorade or Sprite are good beverages because
they will give you some calories and are easy on the
stomach.
Once you've gotten over the bug, make
sure to sanitize everything! Wash all of your bedding,
get a new toothbrush, and wash any surface you may have
come in contact with so that your living area is flu
free. Good luck this winter season and don't forget
that that little prick that the flu shot causes will
be well worth it.
DM
DM
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