Medical Alert: Thomson Student Health Center treating an outbreak of flu cases

February 5, 2008

The campus of the University of South Carolina is experiencing widespread cases of seasonal influenza. Since the beginning of Spring semester, the Thomson Student Health Center staff has seen an increase in positive cases for the flu or flu-like symptoms.

Flu-like symptoms include a high fever, body aches, joint pains, vomiting, diarrhea, stomach cramps, and chills.

People who are sick with the flu should see their medical provider for treatment. Prescription antiviral drugs, like Tamiflu, are available at the Thomson Student Health Center Pharmacy. If taken within two days of getting sick, antiviral drugs can shorten the course of the illness and may reduce the intensity of the symptoms.

To make an appointment with a medical provider at the Thomson Student Health Center, call (803) 777-3175.

Flu Prevention Tips

• 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 when you are sick. If possible, stay 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.
• Practice other good health habits. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food.
• Ask your physician to prescribe anti-viral medication. Tamiflu can shorten the course of the illness and may reduce the intensity of the symptoms.

Deborah Beck, Ed.D.
Executive Director
Student Health Services

Mike McKenzie, M.D.
Clinical Director
Student Health Services