Wash your hands, avoid sick people during flu season

Flu season is here.
North Carolina's first two flu-related deaths occurred in Forsyth County, and 31 flu-related deaths have been reported statewide  as of Jan. 12.
Michael Isler, clinical services coordinator and professional nurse at the Winston-Salem State A. H. Ray Student Health Services, said students should be proactive in protecting themselves against the flu.  
Isler advises  students to stay away from sick people and to wash their hands as often as possible and long enough to sing the 'Happy Birthday' song twice.
"This year's flu outbreak is particularly worse than last year's," Isler said.
"It started earlier than most flu seasons, and it also hit many states around the same time."
The virus usually peaks late January or February, but it spread quickly  in more than 40 states, including North Carolina.
According to the Centers for Disease Control weekly influenza report, 41 states have reported widespread geographic influenza activity as of Jan. 15.
The flu is one of the most common winter illnesses; it is also one of the most dangerous.
"The flu is not just another virus...[it's] a deadly virus," Isler said.
Isler said the flu can lead to disabling infections including pneumonia and lung abscesses.


He said the flu is easily detectable because of its quick onset.
"All of a sudden you will start feeling extremely weak," Isler said.
He said students should come into the Student Health Services within 48 hours, if they suspect a flu-related illness.
Flu symptoms include fever, body aches, tiredness and coughing.
The CDC estimates that flu deaths in the United States range from about 3,000 to 50,000 each year.
Isler said getting a flu vaccine is the first and most important step people can do to protect themselves.
"The [flu][ vaccine is 60 percent effective," Isler said.
He said the odds of getting a vaccine to prevent getting the virus are good compared to having absolutely no protection.
The Student Health Services  administers flu shots to students 9 to 11 a.m. and 1:30 to 3 p.m. every Tuesday and Wednesday.
Isler said students who are diagnosed with the flu can get medicine as well as a voucher for the cafeteria from the Student Health Services.
"Students [with the flu] can get a friend to bring them food from the cafeteria using that voucher, so they don't spread the virus," he said.
He said students with the flu should stay inside and away from others for two to three days after being diagnosed.
"We will notify the hall director for students that live on campus, and those that live off-campus will be sent home," Isler said.
"We can't do anything to help if students don't come in," Isler said.