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Student Health Service Information about the Common Cold and Flu

by Betsy Chapman

The following information was shared by the Student Health Service.

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Common Cold or the Flu?

Coughing and sneezing are common sounds in crowds this time of year. As we enter the winter season, respiratory infections such as influenza (the flu) and common colds increase in frequency. The staff in Student Health Service would like to provide some information regarding prevention, self-care, and when your son/daughter should seek evaluation by a medical provider for these conditions.

  1. It is not too late to receive a flu shot which is the best method of prevention for influenza. Additional measures to prevent contracting illness include practicing good hand hygiene and avoiding close contact with people who have symptoms of an upper respiratory infection. Flu shots are still available in Student Health Service Monday- Fridays.
  2. Individuals with fever (temperature of 100.4 or higher) along with sneezing, coughing or runny nose are very contagious and should isolate themselves to reduce the risk of infection others until they have been without fever for 24 hours.
  1. Symptoms of the common cold and the flu can be similar. Information on how to differentiate between the two illnesses, when to seek care and options for self-care can be found here in our Cold Vs. Flu page, as well as in the following links:

http://www.cdc.gov/getsmart/antibiotic-use/URI/colds.html

http://www.cdc.gov/getsmart/antibiotic-use/symptom-relief.html

Contact

To contact the Office of Family Engagement or Family Communications, please visit our contact page.

 

For mental health assistance: 336-758-CARE (2273) is a service that ensures someone will always be available (i.e., 24/7 M-F, weekends and university holidays) to provide caring and thoughtful consultation services for Wake Forest students in need of mental health assistance or support. You can also visit we.wfu.edu for resources.