The 2017-18 influenza season is in full swing, and the California Department of Public Health has issued a Severe Influenza Advisory. The season may have yet to reach its peak. It is not too late to get vaccinated, which is the best protection against this potentially serious disease.
Getting vaccinated is the first and most important step in protection against influenza. Vaccinations are available to students through the Student Health Center. Staff and faculty can receive vaccinations from private physicians and many pharmacies in the community. Visit the Health Services website for more information on seasonal influenza.
In addition to getting vaccinated, the following habits will help reduce the spread of the flu and other illness:
- Stay home when you are sick to prevent spreading the flu.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
- Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.
- If you don't have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve, not your hands.
- Wash your hands, use hand sanitizers, and disinfect work surfaces with sanitizing wipes.
More information on the prevention of the flu is available at https://www.cdc.gov/flu/index.htm.
Sincerely,
Dr. Brandon Boggs
Medical Director
Student Health Center
