The number of flu cases reported on the Oxford campus swelled from zero to more than 200 during the first two weeks of the spring semester. Photo by Robert Jordan/Ole Miss Digital Imaging Services
OXFORD, Miss. – A popular proverb says, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” During an unusual influenza season when reported cases of aggressive and persistent strains of the virus have reached high levels across the state, a University of Mississippi physician offers some specific ways to keep the bad bugs at bay.
The number of flu cases reported on the Oxford campus swelled from zero to more than 200 during the first two weeks of the spring semester, said Dr. Travis W. Yates, director of Student Health Services in the V.B. Harrison Health Center. While the volume of reports has decreased significantly recently, Yates cautioned that it’s too early to say the worst is over.
“I don’t think this lull means we’re out of the woods,” he said. “We don’t see all the students on campus. At any time, an unknown number of those with flu symptoms are also going to urgent care centers around town.”
The physician said the best way to prevent contracting the virus is to get a flu shot.
“The protective rate for those getting the shot during this flu season is between 40 (percent) and 50 percent,” he said. “That’s significantly higher than it was last year during this time.
“I also recommend wearing a surgical mask that covers the nose and mouth. It doesn’t guarantee you won’t catch the flu, but it does definitely improve the odds.”
Yates also suggested the following actions to prevent the spread of germs:
- Avoid close contact with sick people.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or upper arm when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
- Wash your hands with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way.
- Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with flu germs.
While the majority of those whom come into the health center with flu symptoms are students, several faculty and staff members also have been among those infected by strains of the virus.
“There are two flu strains,” Yates said. “Strain A is the most common, with 95 percent of our students who tested positive tested positive for Strain A.
“Both strains are believed to be susceptible to the currently available antiviral medications, which seem to be helpful, as most students do not return seeking follow-up evaluation.”
For those who begin to experience flu-like symptoms – including fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills, fatigue, vomiting or diarrhea – Yates offers the following tips for recovery:
- Stay home until you have been free of fever for 24 hours, without the use of fever medications, except to seek medical care.
- Avoid contact, as possible, from roommates, friends and family. This will reduce spreading the virus to others.
- Avoid travel by plane, train or in a car unless you are traveling home. Wear a face mask, if tolerable and available.
- Use acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs as directed on the bottle for fever, headache or aches. Do not take aspirin or products that contain aspirin.
- Drink adequate liquids. Your appetite may be poor, but you are encouraged to eat regularly.
Individuals with underlying illnesses – such as diabetes, asthma or other chronic illnesses – should see a health care provider for prophylactic medication if they have known exposure to influenza.
“While catching the flu is a common occurrence, avoiding it can be a common occurrence as well,” Yates said. “Remember, any and all prevention practices are better than no prevention practices at all.”
For more information about flu prevention, call Student Health Services at 662-915-7274.