Flu season has arrived, making it more important to protect yourself and others from illness. While getting an annual flu shot is strongly recommended, you can also reduce your risk of catching or spreading cold and flu viruses by practicing good hygiene, recognizing common symptoms, taking simple steps to relieve discomfort, and staying home when sick. Whether you’re on campus or traveling, these easy precautions can help keep you healthy.
A common cold and the flu (influenza) are different illnesses. Here’s how to tell the difference:
Common cold symptoms
- Low or no fever
- Sometimes you may have a headache
- Stuffy or runny nose
- Sneezing is very common
- Mild, hacking cough
- Slight aches and pains
- Mild fatigue
- Sore throat
- Energy levels may be normal, or sluggish
- Symptoms can last for 7-10 days
Flu (influenza) symptoms
- High fever
- Very common to have a headache
- Stuffy or runny nose
- Sometimes sneezing
- Severe cough
- Severe aches and pains
- Fatigue can last several weeks
- Sometimes sore throat
- Extreme exhaustion
- Symptoms can last for several weeks
Treatment Options to Help Relieve Symptoms
- Over-the-counter cold medications, such as decongestants and cough medicine
- Over-the-counter antihistamines
- Rest
- Increased fluid intake
- Pain relievers for headache or fever
- Warm, saltwater gargling for sore threat
- Petroleum jelly for raw, chapped skin around the nose and lips
- Warm steam for congestion
Stop the Spread of Germs and Prevent the Flu
- Wash your hands often and keep your hands away from your eyes, nose, and mouth
- If soap and hot water aren’t available to wash your hands, use alcohol-based hand sanitizers.
- When coughing or sneezing, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your sleeve or elbow, not your hands.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- If you’re sick: stay home and away from others as much as possible and get plenty of rest and liquids.
- Be sure to get your annual flu vaccination. They are free for students at LMU Student Health Services or low-cost flu shots in L.A. County.
Need a Flu Shot?
- According to the CDC, flu season can start as early as October and last until May. Students can get a free flu shot at Student Health Services (SHS) via the MyHealth portal in MyLMU, or by calling 310.338.2881 to schedule an appointment.
- Students, staff, and faculty can also contact their primary health provider or find a free or low-cost flu shot via the L.A. Public Health influenza resource page.
Traveling During Cold and Flu Season
If you’re planning to get the flu shot, aim to get vaccinated at least two weeks before traveling (as it takes two weeks for immunity to take effect). Try to stay home if you feel sick and follow the common wellness tips listed above while in transit. After your trip, monitor your health for seven days.
