With California seeing an unusually cold winter, immune systems are down and cold and flu symptoms are up. LMU encourages all Lions to take the following simple precaution tips, to keep the campus healthy through the winter months.
Stop the Spread of Germs and Prevent the Flu
- Get the annual flu shot. Students can book an appointment at Student Health Services, or read more below on other options for free or low-cost flu shots in L.A. County.
- Wash your hands often. If soap and hot water aren’t available, 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. If you think you may have COVID, get a free COVID test at the on-campus COVID Testing Center (or, visit Campus Safety in Foley Annex to pick up free rapid antigen tests). Check in with your doctor if symptoms don’t improve.
Need a Flu Shot?
According to the CDC, flu season can start as early as October and last until May. Students can get a 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 & Flu Season
If you’re planning to get the flu shot, aim to get vaccinated at least 2 weeks before traveling (as it takes 2 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 7 days.
For more wellness tips, visit LMU Emergency Management’s influenza prevention page
