Fall is the season for cooler temperatures, pumpkin-spiced everything and, of course, the flu.
Flu season is officially here, but there are many on-campus resources for University of Idaho students.
Emily Tuschhoff, health education coordinator at Vandal Health, said she has been working since the start of the month to raise awareness for flu vaccinations.
She said a common misconception is being unaware the difference between the flu and the stomach flu.
“Usually the flu is more similar to a cold with the symptoms,” Tuschhoff said. “Throwing up and upset stomach are usually symptoms of the stomach flu.”
Even though the symptoms may be seemingly harmless, Tuschhoff said many Americans die every year from the flu, which is why she urges students to get their shot.
“We definitely see an influx of vaccinations once it reaches national news, but it”s better for students to get it before then,” Tuschhoff said.
Students can get a free vaccination at various flu shot clinics that will be open at different times throughout the year.
The next flu shot clinic will be from 1-5 p.m. Wednesday at the Student Recreation Center. After students get a flu shot, they can stop by the annual Vandal Health and Recreation Fair where they can learn about more resources and enter to win prizes.
There will also be free flu shot clinics from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Oct. 28 in the Teaching Learning Center, and from 4-7 p.m. on Nov. 3 in the Kibbie Dome. Tuschhoff said these clinics will offer free meningitis vaccines as well.
Vandal Health will also give presentations upon request about issues ranging from maintaining a healthy diet to how to handle stress. Tuschhoff said anyone can request a presentation on the Vandal Health webpage, where there is also more information on flu season and a Flu IQ quiz.
Tuschhoff
Tuschhoff said they also plan to set up the Health Hut in the Idaho Commons on Oct. 21 and Nov. 10 so students can stop by and learn more about Vandal Health resources.
Besides getting the flu shot, Tuschhoff said students should stop by the Student Health Clinic every year for a check-up.
“Even the Counseling and Testing Center can be helpful in reducing stress levels in students, which can make you less likely to get sick,” Tuschhoff said.
Tuschoff said eating healthy, staying active, and taking a good amount of vitamin C can be beneficial during flu season. Yet, she still urges student on campus to get vaccinated at the flu shot clinic.
“Those things are all great for keeping you healthy, but if someone is sitting next to you coughing, your best bet will be to get the flu shot,” Tuschhoff said.
Tuschhoff said students who already have the flu can stop by the health and resource room at the SRC to get a flu quick kit which contains flu necessities such as tissues.
“I definitely recommend staying home and getting rest,” Tuschhoff said. “I know it”s hard for students to skip classes, but it”s really the best way to prevent the spread of illness.”
Jessica Gee can be reached at [email protected] or on Twitter @jaycgeek