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Writer's pictureSheena J. Jackson

Do You Have the Flu? What Should You Do?


It’s a month into the flu season, which means that college students shouldn't abandon their wellness routine due to the holidays, and the arrival of finals. More importantly students should consider getting the flu shot. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) the flu “is a contagious respiratory illness caused by the influenza virus that can infect the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs.”

​What that means, the illness is airborne and a student can come in contact with the virus just about anywhere. This can be in class, at the Reef, library, grocery store, and especially in the dorms.

Due to low vaccination rates of 8% to 39% on college campuses according to a statistic used by NBC News, and the tight knit nature of the residence halls, it is a ripe opportunity for the flu to spread around from student to student then to faculty and staff.

​To stop a mini epidemic of the illness from ravaging USFSP, students should consider getting their flu shot and a great place to go is the Wellness Center in the Student Life Center (SLC) room 2200. The flu shot for students is at no cost, it is covered by the tuition students pay at the beginning of every semester, so why not get it? It’s free.

The Wellness Center encourages that students and faculty get their flu shots before the start of the winter break which the CDC also supports this by stating the peak of the season is between December and February. If students are already sick and experiencing flu like symptoms of fever or the feeling of chills, cough, sore throat, muscle or body aches don’t wait, go see a health care provider.

The Wellness Center has health care services that a USFSP student can utilize and can get seen by an Advanced Practicing Registered Nurse (ARNP) who can evaluate and treat minor to acute illnesses. Just like setting up an appointment to see a doctor, a USFSP student will have to schedule an appointment to be seen. If it’s an emergency, go to the ER right away. Remember, getting a flu shot isn’t only a protection for the student, it’s also for the vulnerable population such as the elderly and infants due to their low immune system. Here are Some Practical Health Tips:

  • Drink plenty of fluids, especially water.

  • WASH YOUR HANDS! while out, this can be an antibacterial soap or alcohol based hand sanitizer.

  • Eat healthfully and don’t abandon your wellness routine to manage stress.

  • Use antibacterial wipes in common living spaces, this is important if students live in dorms or with roommates.

  • If you have to sneeze or cough, do so in the crook of your arm to protect others from germs.

Wellness Center Contact Information: Call (727) 873-4422 to schedule an appointment

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