Flu cases on the rise, protect yourself

Students, faculty and staff are advised that flu cases have risen recently at the university. Seasonal flu cases have surpassed the peak of H1N1 flu cases that the university tracked last year. Because students often live and study in close quarters, it’s especially important to take precautionary measures to limit the spread of flu.

Students, faculty and staff are urged to get their seasonal flu vaccine during a flu clinic from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Feb. 15, outside of the Memorial Union. Vaccines will be offered for $5 (an $11 savings off of a regular flu shot) for those who bring a non-perishable food item or make a donation to feed the hungry in our community. Alternately, an insurance company can be billed for the cost of the vaccine. Students, faculty and staff should bring their Sun Card.

In the meantime, please heed these basic hygiene messages that help limit the spread of flu:

• Stay home if you are sick. Since flu viruses are easily spread, students are urged to stay home and isolate themselves if they’re sick. Talk to professors about making up coursework if you’re ill. It’s Ok to return to classes after you’ve been fever free and off of fever-reducing medication for 24 hours.

• Cough right by covering your cough or sneeze with a tissue or your sleeve, never your hand. Colds and flu spread from the hand, not the mouth.

• Wash hands thoroughly. It’s vitally important to use a 60 percent alcohol-based hand cleaner during cold and flu season, especially after going to the bathroom and before eating. If a hand cleaner is not available, wash hands in warm water for at least 15 seconds or the time it takes to sing Row, Row, Row Your Boat.

For additional information, go to pandemic.asu.edu.

Provided by Arizona State University