January 19, 2017
A cough or a sneeze can spread disease: Protect yourself and others from the flu
Submitted by Lafene Health Center
At the peak of cold and flu season, the number of reports has increased in the Midwest. Lafene Health Center reminds students, faculty and staff about flu symptoms, prevention and care. Kansas State University's primary concern is the health and safety of the university community.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, flu symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, fatigue and sometimes diarrhea and vomiting. Flu viruses are spread mainly by droplets made when people with flu cough, sneeze or talk. It is important to know that even if you don't have a fever, you may have the flu and be contagious if you get flu symptoms.
What should you do if you get sick or have symptoms? The CDC recommends that you stay home and avoid contact for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. Stay away from others as much as possible to prevent making others sick. Continue to cover your coughs and sneezes, and wash hands frequently even after you return to class or work.
The easiest way to prevent the flu is to get vaccinated. Lafene Health Center still has about 500 seasonal flu vaccinations available for students, faculty and staff. Call Lafene Health Center during business hours at 785-532-6544 or students may visit the myLafene patient portal at Lafene Health Center's website to schedule an appointment if you have symptoms or would like the vaccine. Please bring your student or staff ID card and insurance information. The cost is $22 for students and $25 for nonstudents. Please be aware that the vaccine takes approximately 2 weeks from the time of injection before it is effective.
For more information, read Lafene Health Center's FAQ about influenza.