If you are sick with the flu, below are some tips on how to take care of yourself
and to keep others around you healthy during this season.
- Know the signs and symptoms of flu. Symptoms of flu include fever
or chills and cough or sore throat. In addition, symptoms of flu can
include runny nose, body aches, headache, tiredness, diarrhea,
- Stay home or at your place of residence if you are sick for at least 24 hours after there is no longer a fever (100 degrees Fahrenheit
or 38 degrees Celsius) or signs of a fever (have chills, feel very warm,
have a flushed appearance, or are sweating). This should be determined without
the use of fever-reducing medications (any medicine that
contains ibuprofen or acetaminophen). Staying away from others while
sick can prevent others from getting sick too. Ask a roommate or friend to
check up on you and to bring you food and supplies, if needed.
- Contact the residence hall manager if you are sick and cannot leave campus and do not have a private room, so alternate housing can be
- Cover you mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also
effective if soap and water are not available.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs spread this way. It is acceptable to cough or sneeze in sleeves if
no tissue is available.
- Sick people should stay at home or in their residence, except to go to their health care provider’s office.
- Stay in a separate room and avoid contact with others. If
someone is caring for you, wear a mask, if available and tolerable,
when they are in the room.
- Drink plenty of clear fluids (such as water, broth, sports drinks, and electrolyte beverages for infants)
to keep from becoming dehydrated.
- Contact your health care provider or health services if you are at higher risk for complications from flu
for treatment. People at higher risk for flu complications include
children under the age of 5 years, pregnant women, people of any age
who have chronic medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease),
and people age 65 years and older.
- Contact your health care provider if no improvement with the recommendations from Centers for Disease Control, or go to the emergency department right away if
you are having difficulty breathing or are getting worse.
For specific information on how to take care of someone who is sick, visit the federal
government website at www.cdc.gov
For more information about flu, call 1-800-CDC-INFO or visit www.flu.gov