Flu Vaccination
The Student Health Service is currently offering flu shots. Students, faculty, and staff can call the main line at (414) 288-7184 to schedule an appointment during regular clinic hours. Flu shots provided at the Student Health Service are $30 (check, MarquetteCash, Visa, MasterCard or bank/debit card).
Influenza: The Flu
What is influenza?
Influenza,
also known as the flu, is a contagious disease that is caused
by the influenza virus. It attacks the respiratory tract
in humans (nose, throat, and lungs). Influenza usually
occurs during the months of November through April.
Influenza
types A or B viruses cause epidemics of disease almost
every winter. In the United States , these winter influenza
epidemics can cause illness in 10% to 20% of people and are
associated with an average of 36,000 deaths and 114,000 hospitalizations
per year.
What
are the symptoms of influenza?
Influenza
usually comes on suddenly and may include these symptoms:
- Fever
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Dry
cough
- Sore
throat
- Nasal
congestion
- Body
aches
How
is influenza virus spread?
Influenza
is spread, or transmitted, when a person who has the flu
coughs, sneezes, or speaks and sends flu virus into the air,
and other people inhale the virus. The virus enters
the nose, throat, or lungs of a person and begins to multiply,
causing symptoms of influenza. A person with influenza
is contagious starting the day before symptoms start and
can continue for up to 1 week.
What
can I do to protect myself against the flu?
The single best way to protect against the flu is to get vaccinated each year. You
can also protect yourself from getting the flu by practicing good
hygiene, including frequent hand washing with soap and water;
and by covering your nose and mouth (preferably with a tissue)
when you cough or sneeze. Drinking plenty of fluids, eating
a well-balanced diet and getting plenty of rest will keep your
immune system healthy. If you are sick, stay home from work
or school to avoid passing anything on to others.
How
is influenza treated?
Influenza
is caused by a virus, therefore, antibiotics are ineffective.
Treatment is aimed at the relief of symptoms. If you have
the flu, rest, drink
plenty of liquids and take
medication to relieve the symptoms of flu such
as Tylenol, Ibuprofen, cough medication and/or decongestants.
