The 2017-2018 flu season is one of the worst since the swine flu outbreak (H1N1) in 2009. Classically, the worst months for the flu are December through February. We are seeing many people sick with influenza in Merced County. Throughout California, influenza is widespread and we want you to be prepared!
This year’s predominant flu strain is Influenza A (H3N2). This strain has a higher incidence of hospitalizations and deaths, with 37 pediatric deaths to date. The symptoms of influenza come on rapidly with a high fever, body aches, fatigue and a dry cough. Typically, the fever lasts 3 to 7 days and the dry cough and fatigue can persist for several weeks. Individuals can spread the flu 1 day prior to showing symptoms and most adults are contagious for 5-7 days after the onset of symptoms.
The best way to protect yourself against the flu is by receiving the flu vaccine. Flu shots are available for students by appointment at the Student Health Center and for faculty and staff at our flu clinics, at your health care provider’s office or at most pharmacies. Flu shots are free of charge for active UC Merced students and most insurance companies cover the flu shot at 100%.
We are aware that this year’s flu shot is not completely effective at preventing the predominant strain of the flu. In light of this, we still highly encourage you to get vaccinated. Evidence shows that if infected with the flu virus, those who are vaccinated will become less ill and will recover from the flu more quickly.
There are a few ways that you can decrease spreading the flu. Protect yourself and others by washing your hands frequently and covering your cough with a tissue or coughing into your arm. If you are sick with a fever and cough, we recommend that you stay home until fever free for 24 hours (off of anti-fever medication) to lessen the spread of the virus to others. Please do not go to class, dining commons, ride the bus or go to work until your fever has resolved for a full day.
It is not always necessary to see a health care provider when you are sick with flu like symptoms. We recommend that you see a medical provider right away if you experience any of the following:
- A fever that will not go away with fever reducing medication
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Dizziness or disorientation
- Persistent nausea and vomiting
- If you recover from flu-like symptoms and the symptoms later return with a worsening fever and cough
If you have not received your flu shot it is not too late! Please make every effort to get your vaccination.
For more information on the flu and how to take care of yourself, please visit:
https://www.cdc.gov/flu/takingcare.htm
https://health.ucmerced.edu/resources/seasonal-flu
UC Merced Student Health Center Appointment Line: 209-228-2273 option #2
