National shortage cuts GC&SU flu shots
The Baldwin County Health Department is not able to offer flu shots on the Georgia College & State University campus this year.
“Due to the massive shortage of the vaccine, most areas of the country are facing the same dilemma,” Registered Nurse and Director of GC&SU’s Health Center, Alice Loper, said.
The flu season, which starts in Oct., has been known to last until May. To combat the flu, the Center for Disease Control recommends getting the flu shot in Oct. or Nov., but no later than Dec. However, that may be easier said than done this flu season since the U.S. has had to do without half of its expected supply since one of the two providers was shut down.
If students are unable to receive the vaccination, there are several things they can do to reduce their chances of getting sick.
“We all need to take extra precautions this year by maintaining as good a health status as possible by covering the mouth and nose when sneezing and coughing, and by vigilant hand washing,” Loper said. “Eating utensils and other personal items should never be shared. Eating a balanced diet, getting adequate rest and a reduction of stress are additional ways to lessen the risk.”
Once a student has contracted the flu, he or she should expect to experience symptoms for at least one to two weeks. Common flu symptoms are headache, extreme fatigue, dry cough, sore throat, runny nose, achy muscles and gastro-intestinal symptoms.
The recovery process should include getting plenty of rest, drinking lots of liquids, avoiding tobacco products and taking proper medications. As with every season, anyone planning to get the flu shot is advised to consult their physician if the patient is allergic to chicken eggs, is sick with a high fever or has had a severe reaction to the vaccine in previous years.
Students may acquire further information about the flu or the flu shot by visiting http://www.cdc.gov/flu/index. htm.
Posted by Colonnade Archives
on Oct 15 2004. Filed under Other.
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