Influenza Update

Limited amount of the flu vaccine is available at the EMU health center on a first-come, first-served basis for a cost of $18.00. Please call 540-432-4317 (x4317 on campus) for an appointment.

We cannot provide the vaccine to the following patients:

• persons under the age of 18
• patients with Medicare insurance
• patients with Medicaid insurance.

In addition, we will not be billing insurance this year. Payment can be made by check, cash or EMU account (for staff, faculty and students). Thank you for your support in our efforts to keep our community healthy!

Information about Flu

Flu Vaccine Information

What is Flu?

The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness.

Symptoms of flu include:

• Fever (usually high)
• Headache
• Extreme tiredness
• Dry cough
• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Muscle aches
• Gastro-intestinal symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, are much more common amoung children than adults.

Treatment for the flu is usually:

• Rest
• Drink plenty of liquids
• Avoid using alcohol and tobacco
• Take medication to relieve symptoms of flu (Never give asprin to children or teenagers who have flu-like symptoms-and particularly fever-without first speaking with a physician.)
• Anti virals may also be used if exposure has occured. Best if taken within the forst 48 hours.

To decrease spread:

• Avoid close contact: Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.
• Stay home with you are sick. If at all possible, stay at home from work, school and errands when you are sick. You will help prevent others from catching your illness.
• Cover your mouth and nose. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.
• Clean your hands! Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose or mouth.

To prevent:

• Get the vaccine (anyone with a chronic disease or who is 65 years or over should check with their Primary Care Provider for the vaccine.)
• Get adequate rest
• Eat a well balanced diet
• Wash hands frequently
• Limit contact with persons who have the flu:)

Please do come to see the campus nurse if you have flu symptoms. Resident students see your resident director if you need analgesics