Is it the flu or a cold
We have our first official case of Influenza on campus. It's not too late to get a flu shot!
Flu shots are still available at the Health Center! Come get yours TODAY!
Historically, most flu activity peaks from January to March. Are you prepared?
About the Flu
Please refer to the CDC and Pennsylvania Department of Health websites for up to date info about the 2019-2020 flu season, and flu map.
Scientific Facts (not internet myths) about the Flu Vaccine.
Steps that everyone can take to protect themselves and help prevent the spread of flu
If you haven’t already, get your flu shot ! It is not too late! Even if the vaccine is not a good match to the virus that is now circulating, it can ease the severity and length of symptoms. The Health Center has flu shots available.
Wash your hands often! Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth; germs spread this way. Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects (for example, use Clorox wipes) that may be contaminated with germs like the flu.If you are sick, make sure to cover your cough and limit contact with others as much as possible. Rest and drink plenty of fluids! Cough and congestion may be a cold; accompanying fever and body aches may be the flu. For flu symptoms, stay away from others for at least 24 hours after the fever is gone. If you get the flu and have asthma, diabetes, or other chronic illnesses, there may be medication you can take early on that can improve your symptoms and decrease the risk of complications.
Call the health center with any questions or concerns. We are here to help!
What is the difference between a cold and the flu?
The flu and the common cold are both respiratory illnesses but they are caused by different viruses. Because these two types of illnesses have similar flu-like symptoms, it can be difficult to tell the difference between them based on symptoms alone.
In general, the flu is worse than the common cold, and symptoms such as fever, body aches, extreme tiredness, and dry cough are more common and intense.
Colds are usually milder than the flu. People with colds are more likely to have a runny or stuffy nose. Colds generally do not result in serious health problems, such as pneumonia, bacterial infections, or hospitalizations.
How can you tell the difference between a cold and the flu?
Because colds and flu share many symptoms, it can be difficult (or even impossible) to tell the difference between them based on symptoms alone.
Special tests that usually must be done within the first few days of illness can be carried out, when needed to tell if a person has the flu.
What are the symptoms of the flu versus the symptoms of a cold?
In general, the flu is worse than the common cold, and symptoms such as fever, body aches, extreme tiredness, and dry cough are more common and intense.
Colds are usually milder than the flu. People with colds are more likely to have a runny or stuffy nose. Colds generally do not result in serious health problems, such as pneumonia, bacterial infections, or hospitalizations.
