If you believe you have a strain of the Influenza Virus:
- Stay home (Self isolation).
- Students with flu like symptoms are encouraged to go home if they live in close proximity to the university or self isolate in their room or apartment if they cannot go home due to distance, or if they have family members who are in the high risk group. Do not use public transportation to go home unless wearing a face mask.
- Keep a distance (at least 6 feet from others). Stay out of classes, work, social events, and the public (student dining center and the recreation center, etc.) until you have been fever free for at least 24 hours - less than 100F without the use of fever reducing medicine. A cough may linger, but is not considered reason to stay home or self isolate.
- Monitor temperature; fever can be dehydrating, so drink plenty of fluids.
- Treat symptoms with Tylenol (acetaminophen) for aches and pains (no aspirin/Excedrin), throat lozenges and decongestants. Treatment with antiviral medications is recommended only for those in the high-risk group. Antibiotics are not effective as the flu is caused by a virus.
- Clean hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub often, especially after using tissues and after coughing or sneezing.
- Cover coughs and sneezes with proper respiratory etiquette (tissue or into your elbow/shoulder - not into your hands). Dispose of tissue in the trash and immediately wash your hands.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of clear fluids such as water, broth, sports drinks or electrolyte beverages. Fevers, vomiting and diarrhea make one very susceptible to dehydration. If you feel nauseated, take small sips of liquids every 20 minutes or so, rather than trying to drink a large amount all at once.
- Get plenty of rest.
- Others can help
- Sick trays: if you are on the University meal plan, residence life staff or friends can work with you and dining services to deliver sick trays. Phone 419.289.5762
- Ask a friend to deliver drinks and other supplies as needed
- Communicate with faculty regarding your absence and to make up missed work. Faculty have been encouraged to be flexible with attendance policies and working closely with students to complete requirements.
- Contact a health care provider
- Students: call the Student Health Center at 419.289.5200
- Faculty/staff: call your personal health care provider
Get medical attention right away under the following conditions:
- Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough
- Difficulty breathing or short of breath
- Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
- Sudden Dizziness
- Confusion
- Severe or persistent vomiting