Takeisha Hoyle &
Diamond Jenkins
Blue & White Flash / Staff Writers
Every year, H1N1, better known as the flu, spreads across college campuses nationwide. Close living quarters, shared restrooms, and a lot of social activities make a college student more likely to catch the flu.
Colleges and universities are often hit hard by outbreaks of flu viruses because of dorms, classrooms and constant interaction with others. Often confused with the “common cold”, the flu is much worse. A common health care provider can give you a test to determine whether or not you have the flu.
There are quite a few ways to avoid getting the flu.
Some people get the influenza vaccine, which is better known as the flu shot. The Jackson State UniversityHealth Services Center provides flu shots to students, staff and faculty for $25. This fee can be applied to student fees or pay deducted for employees.
Laurelle Taylor, a senior marketing major from Gary, Ind. said, “I remember having the flu years ago. I hated it. It was my first week of college; the virus isn’t just prominent in the cold months, but it is in the summer months.”
Taylor added, “I think that it is important for students [here] on campus to get the flu vaccination simply because the flu hurts and I would not put that on anyone.”
Despite the tendency of the flu to spread rapidly on college campuses, many students don’t obtain the vaccine and can jeopardize their health and that of those around them.
For those who choose not to get one, there are still ways to avoid contracting the flu. Rest, fluids, and good nutrition are important in the fight against the flu. Good hand-washing techniques include using soap, especially an anti-bacterial soap, which kills germs. Taking vitamin C can reduce the risk of flu and speed up recovery time.
While people with common colds are more likely to have a runny or stuffy nose. People who have contracted the flu have a few more major symptoms such as:
• a 100F or higher fever or feeling feverish (not everyone with the flu has a fever)
• a runny or stuffy nose
• headaches and/or body aches
• chills
• fatigue
• nausea, vomiting, and/or diarrhea (most common in children)
If you do contract the flu, you should go see a health care provider immediately. Your health care provider may prescribe antiviral medications or antibiotics.
Students can also do the following to alleviate some of the discomfort of the flu:
• Get plenty of rest
• Drink clear fluids
• Place a cool, damp washcloth on your forehead, arms, and legs to reduce discomfort associated with a fever
• Put a humidifier in your room to make breathing easier
• Gargle salt water to soothe a sore throat
• Cover up with a warm blanket to calm chills
Avoiding the flu is very easy, contracting the flu is even easier. Try to stay clear of those already infected and consider getting the vaccination.
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