The Minnesota Department of Health reported an increase in seasonal influenza activity in schools last week. If you have not yet received a flu shot this year, take the time to protect yourself and others. It is not too late.
The Centers for Disease Control recommends yearly flu vaccine as the first and most important step in protecting against influenza. Contact Student Health Services in St. Paul or in Minneapolis at (651) 962-6750 to schedule a flu shot.
Important additional measures to stay prevent the spread of the flu:
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way.
- Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
- If you are sick with a flu–like illness, stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. (Your fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.)
- While sick, limit contact with others as much as possible to keep from infecting them.
For more information see the Student Health Services website and the Centers for Disease Control website.
