Student Health Clinic - Preparing for Flu Season

Grundy Hall Rm 215
319-296-4224
studenthealthcenter@hawkeyecollege.edu
Monday-Friday 8:30-4:00

Flu Shots Available

Flu shots will be available at the Student Health Office after October 21 for $25.00.

What is the flu?

Flu, also called influenza, is a contagious disease of the lungs and airways. Usually influenza viruses are spread in droplets of coughs and sneezes.

What is pandemic influenza?

Pandemic influenza refers to a flu strain that has spread around the world to many people. In the last century, three influenza pandemics happened worldwide; each pandemic was different and hard to predict.

What are flu symptoms?

Fever
Runny Nose
Headache
Sore Throat
Body Aches
Cough
Extreme Tiredness

How does Seasonal Flu differ from Pandemic Flu?

Seasonal Flu
- Occurs every year usually in the winter
- Affects about 10% of the population
- For most people it is an unpleasant non-life-threatening infection
- Annual vaccination is available for those at risk of serious illness
Pandemic Flu
- Occurs rarely (three times in the 20th century)
- May affect around 25% of the population
- Can be a more serious infection for everyone
- Vaccine not available in the early stages of a pandemic

How can I protect my family and myself?

Get a flu shot
Cover your cough and sneeze with tissue or sleeve
Avoid touching your nose, mouth, and eyes
Practice Healthy Habits! Eat healthy, get plenty of rest, and exercise regularly
Wash your hands often
- Use warm water
- Rub your hands together with soap for at least 20 seconds (sing Happy Birthday 2x)
- Completely rinse the soap off your hands under warm running water
- Dry your hands with a paper towel or air dryer
- Use a paper towel, if available, to turn off the faucet and open the bathroom door
- If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer
- See the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information

What should I do if I get the flu?

Stay home when you feel sick
Stock medicines for fever, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen. Cold packs, blankets and humidifiers will also be useful. Have extra water and fruit juice on hand - the flu virus causes dehydration, and drinking extra fluids helps.

Additional Resources

For more information, contact

The Student Health Clinic at 319-296-4224
OR the Black Hawk County Health Department at 319-291-2413