Flu Information
Flu Vaccine Information:
Flu shots are available at Wardenburg for students, staff, and faculty on a walk-in basis (no appointment necessary).
The seasonal flu vaccine protects against the three influenza viruses that research suggests will be most common. The 2011-2012 flu vaccine will protect against 2009 H1N1, and two other influenza viruses (an H3N2 virus and an influenza B virus).
About two weeks after vaccination, antibodies develop that protect against influenza virus infection. Flu vaccines will not protect against flu-like illnesses caused by non-influenza viruses.
Preventing Seasonal Flu
- Get vaccinated: The single best way to prevent the flu is to get a flu vaccine each season: The “flu shot“–an inactivated vaccine (containing killed virus) that is given with a needle.
- Wash your hands: Use warm water and soap to wash your hands when visibly soiled or use hand sanitizer (available in many buildings on campus)
- Cough/Sneeze into your sleeve or crook of your elbow: “Why don’t we do it in our sleeves?” video
Flu Facts
What is Influenza (Flu)?
The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting a flu vaccine each year.
Symptoms of Flu
People who have the flu often have a sudden onset of some or all of these symptoms:
- fever* or feeling feverish/chills
- cough
- sore throat
- runny or stuffy nose
- muscle or body aches
- headaches
- fatigue (very tired)
- Some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults
*It’s important to note that not everyone with flu will have a fever.
How Flu Spreads
Most experts believe that flu viruses spread mainly by droplets made when people with flu cough, sneeze or talk. These droplets can land in the mouths or noses of people who are nearby. Less often, a person might also get flu by touching a surface or object that has flu virus on it and then touching their own mouth, eyes or nose.
Who Should Get Vaccinated?
On February 24, 2010 vaccine experts voted that everyone 6 months and older should get a flu vaccine each year starting with the 2010-2011 influenza season. CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) voted for “universal” flu vaccination in the U.S. to expand protection against the flu to more people. While everyone should get a flu vaccine each flu season, it’s especially important that certain people get vaccinated either because they are at high risk of having serious flu-related complications or because they live with or care for people at high risk for developing flu-related complications.
For more information about the flu visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
