Most people who get the flu have a sudden onset of fever, dry cough, body aches, sore throat, headache, and extreme tiredness or weakness. The fever and body aches usually last 2–3 days and rarely more than 5 days. Cough, tiredness, and weakness may last longer. Some people who get the flu may feel tired or weak for 2 or more weeks after the fever goes away.
Symptoms that require prompt medical attention:
· trouble breathing – breathing is very fast, difficult, or painful
· chest pain
· confusion
· changes in their speech, or speaks in a way you can’t understand
· can’t walk or sit up
· bluish or gray skin color
· Trouble drinking enough fluids, not urinating
· Severe or persistent vomiting
· Not waking up or responding
· Fever that does not resolve after 3 days from onset of illness
· Fever that recurs after being resolved for more than 24 hours
· seizure (uncontrolled twitching or shaking)
Call Public Safety at 508-494-9010 if any of the above occurs while oncampus
Ways to prevent transmission:
· Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your inner elbow and not your hands.
· Wash your hands often with soap and water, or use an alcohol based hand-sanitizer, especially after you cough or sneeze.
· Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
· Do not share food, drink, utensils, or anything that goes in or near your mouth.
· Use disinfectants to clean frequently touched areas like keyboards, door knobs, cell phones, desks, etc.
How to Take Care Of Yourself
Fever is a higher than normal body temperature. It is the most common symptom of the flu. Although fever may cause worry, it helps the body fight infection and is usually not harmful.
Fever-reducing medicines can be used if the person is uncomfortable. Use medicine that is right for the person’s age and follow label directions carefully.
Sore throat and cough are also highly likely with the flu. A “dry” cough is a cough that does not bring up mucus. It is a common symptom of the flu. You may also experience a stuffy nose.
· Drink lots of fluids-Clear fluids (such as water or clear broth), juice, non-caffeinated tea, and warm soup are all good choices for relieving cough.
· Use steam from a hot shower or bath. This helps keep the nose and throat moist.
· Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and cigarette smoke, which can make symptoms worse.
· Use breathing strips for people having trouble breathing through their nose. Be sure to follow package instructions.
· Use a saline spray or saltwater rinse in the nose.
· Gargle with salt water several times a day to help reduce a sore throat or cough. To make salt water, mix ½ teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of water.
· Drink warm lemon water with honey
· Use throat lozenges
Dehydration occurs when people lose more water than they take in. This is more likely to occur if you experience vomiting, diarrhea, or are not taking in enough fluids.
Signs of Mild or Moderate Dehydration
· Feeling more thirsty
· Very dry mouth
· Dry, chapped lips
· Less urination or darker urine
· Slight dizziness or lightheadedness
· Headache
How to Treat Dehydration
· Provide plenty of water, fruit and vegetable juices, soups and broths, and beverages such as Gatorade® or a store brand.
· Avoid caffeine and alcohol.
· Drink small amounts of fluid often.
Body aches are also symptoms of the flu. It is normal for a person with the flu to feel weak, tired, and achy. It is also normal to have a headache.
Contact Health Services with any questions or concerns at 508-849-3315. Leave your name and number if it is after hours so we can respond to you first thing the next business day.
