Flu Advisory

Massachusetts is experiencing an early and severe flu season. In fact, the outbreak is so severe that in Boston, the mayor has announced a health emergency.

Information about the flu

What is the flu?

The flu is a very contagious disease of the respiratory (breathing) system. The flu is easily passed from one person to another by coughing and sneezing. It is usually very unpleasant, but for most people symptoms generally get better after 7-10 days.

How to avoid the flu

The flu usually starts very suddenly with

• fever (from 102-104 degrees) lasting 3-4 days
• headache
• severe muscle aches
• general weakness/extreme fatigue

These symptoms are accompanied by

• dry cough
• sore throat
• runny or stuffy nose

What should I do if I think I have the flu?

If you think you have the flu stay home until your temperature is under 100 degrees for at least 24 hours without the use of fever lowering medications.

If you are a student and are experiencing the above symptoms, call Student Health Services: 508.999.8982. You will be given an appointment and advised to:

• Wash your hands frequently and to cough/sneeze into the crook of  your elbow
• Don a face mask upon entering the Student Health Office and immediately notify the staff of your arrival

See a health care provider or go to an emergency room immediately if you have any of these serious manifestations of the flu

• Flu symptoms that are strong or that do resolve within 7-10 days
• Breathing that is fast, difficult or painful
• Bluish skin
• Cough with yellow mucous
• Getting sick again with fever and/or a worse cough after getting better
• Not drinking enough fluids

General care for flu patients

• Rest in bed
• Drink lots of fluids
• Take non-aspirin pain and fever relievers such as Tylenol (acetaminophen) or Advil (ibuprofen)
• Stay home and avoid public activities until your temperature has been less than 100 degrees for 24 hours without the use of fever lowering medicines
• For extreme cases, visit the emergency room as soon as possible

How do I prevent getting the flu?

• The best way is to get an annual flu shot as soon as possible—as it takes up to two weeks after the shot for full immunity to develop
• Wash your hands frequently and avoid touching your eyes and mouth

More information

• Sheila Dorgan, Director Student Health Services: sdorgan@umassd.edu or 508.910.6527
• Flu Facts/Massachusetts Office of Health and Human Services
• Your own healthcare provider
• Flu/Centers for Disease Control