What to do for the "flu"

By Lee Ann M. Hamilton, MA, CHES, Interim Co-Director, Health Promotion and Preventive Services - Campus Health Service

What is the "Flu"?

Influenza or the flu is caused by influenza viruses, that affect the upper respiratory tract (i.e. nose, throat, sinuses, lungs). The virus is highly contagious and transmitted through close contact or by droplets from the respiratory tract of an infected person. Influenza is most prevalent from November to April, with peak activity in January through March.

How do I know if I my student has the "Flu"?

Unlike other viral respiratory illnesses whose symptoms appear gradually over several days, symptoms of influenza virus appear very suddenly and with great intensity. Early symptoms of influenza include:

• Sore throat
• Fever up to 104, sometimes 105
• Drenching sweats and shaking chills
• Generalized aches, especially in the back, arms, legs and head
• Cough usually by the second day, generally non-productive (unless you smoke) and painful to the chest, throat and head
• General weakness including light-headedness and faintness
• Decreased appetite
• Hyper-sensitivity of skin to touch
• Runny nose, nausea, brief diarrhea or brief vomiting may occur

How long does the "Flu" last?

Influenza is a "self-limiting" virus meaning that it lasts for a period of time and then clears up. Early symptoms including fever may last from 3 to 6 days. Weakness, light-headedness and cough may persist for 1-2 weeks longer. Cough is usually the last symptom to disappear. Sometimes health complications may develop (i.e. sinusitis, pneumonia) that require medical attention.

Students should see a healthcare provider if they experience any of the following:

• Severe earache
• Shortness of breath or wheezing
• Severe head or neck pain
• Skin rash

Fever >101 for more than three days

What can be done for the flu?

No medicine can cure influenza. However, through self-care remedies, over-the-counter products and/or prescription medication, students can make themselves more comfortable while their body's immune system fights the infection. An important note: If a patient seeks care within 24-48 hours of the sudden onset of flu symptoms, anti-viral medications can help lessen the duration and severity of a flu episode.

Prescription medications

Anti-viral medication is available at the Campus Health Service Pharmacy by prescription to reduce symptoms related to the influenza virus. This medication must be taken within 24 to 48 hours after symptom onset to be effective. For more information about the anti-viral medication, consult a Campus Health Pharmacist, 621-6516, or consult a Campus Health Provider, 621-9202.

Self Care Remedies

• Increase hours of rest and sleep. Reducing activity demands upon your body allows for more energy to be directed toward ridding the body of the virus
• Drink increased amounts of fluids. Fluids, either hot or cold, help thin and loosen mucous making it easier for the body to get rid of it. Try for at least 10-12 cups of water, juice, herbal tea, soup or broth daily. Avoid caffeine and alcohol.
• Take hot showers or use a humidifier. Inhaling moist, warm air provides decongestant relief and alleviates the pain of a raw, scratchy throat. Be sure to clean the humidifier regularly to avoid build-up of bacteria or fungi.
• Gargle with warm salt water. Gargling at least 4 times per day with a mixture of 1 teaspoon salt to 8 oz. warm water helps to reduce pain, swelling and irritation of the throat.
• Suck on a piece of hard candy or throat lozenge. This soothes the throat by keeping it moist.

Over-the-Counter Medications

The following over-the-counter medications are available at the Campus Health Service Pharmacy:

• Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil) reduce fever and relieve muscle ache and headaches. Aspirin use is discouraged for viral illnesses due to risk of Reye's Syndrome.
• Cough Medicine. There are two types of cough medicines: expectorants and suppressants. Expectorants loosen congestion in the respiratory tract. Suppressants may reduce the frequency of coughing.
• Decongestants. The decongestants pseudoephedrine (Sudafed) or phenylephrine help relieve sinus congestion. Side effects may include insomnia and nervousness.

What are ways to prevent getting the "Flu"?

• People are more susceptible to viral infections if their immune system is depressed. Here are some tips to keep your immune system strong:
• Get adequate amounts of sleep. Sleep and rest strengthen and enable the immune system to effectively rid the body of illness.
• Eat a healthy, balanced diet. Eating a wide variety of foods ensures that you are getting the vitamins and minerals your immune system needs to function optimally.
• Avoid smoking and second-hand smoke exposure. Smoking cigarettes and/or inhaling second-hand smoke make the lungs more susceptible to respiratory infections and illness and will further irritate the respiratory tract.
• Avoid close contact with those who have the "flu". In addition, wash hands frequently with soap and water or use an alcohol based hand sanitizer. Avoid contact between your hands and mouth, nose and eyes.
• Manage your stress levels. Built up over time, stress hormones break down the immune system. Minimize and release stress through coping strategies and relaxation techniques.
• Move your body. Moderate levels of physical activity release hormones that boost the immune system and relieve excess stress.
• Balance work with play. Making time for activities and people you enjoy strengthens the immune system by reducing stress and improving emotional health
• Get a "Flu Shot". Although it's too late now for the 2007-2008 flu season, next year, have your student get vaccinated between September and December. The influenza vaccine ("flu shot") can prevent infection from the influenza virus. Protection develops about 2 weeks after the shot is received and may last up to a year. UA students can get the influenza vaccination at the Campus Health Service (located in the Highland Commons Building). For more information about the influenza vaccine, visit the Campus Health Service, Immunizations Office or call (520) 621-2292.

LeeAnn Hamilton can be contacted via email at Hamilton@email.arizona.edu.