Health Services Gives Advice to Protect against Flu, Other Contagious Illnesses

Dear Students, Faculty and Staff:

Flu season may be well underway but it’s never too late to protect yourself against the flu and other contagious illnesses. That is why University Health Services would like to remind the campus community of the importance of good health practices, and of keeping vaccinations and vaccination records up to date.

In addition to ensuring you’re up to date on your vaccinations, some other tips for preventing colds and flu include:
1.  Washing hands often with warm water and soap.
2.  Cover nose and mouth with a tissue or with your arm when you sneeze or cough.
3.  Avoid close contact with anyone who is sick.
4.  Get a flu shot. The University will host a FREE flu clinic on Tuesday, Jan. 31, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. in 303 Newhouse 1, Miron Special Events Room. More information can be found here. Flu shots are available every day on a walk-in basis at the Health Services pharmacy as well.

The flu isn’t the only communicable illness that is possible this time of year. There has also been a single case of mumps recently identified among our student population. Mumps can be serious, but most people with mumps make a full recovery within a few weeks. We strongly believe that this student contracted mumps while home during break, and not in Syracuse. Syracuse requires students to show proof of vaccination. That means the vast majority of our students and other campus members have already received the vaccine.

Like the flu, mumps can be contracted even if you’ve had the vaccine. Therefore, it’s important to know the symptoms. The most common symptoms include fever, headache, muscle aches, tiredness, loss of appetite, and swollen and tender salivary glands under the ears on one or both sides. Like the flu, most symptoms of mumps can be managed with over-the-counter medication that reduces fever or discomfort.

Health Services has already contacted those individuals who may have come into close contact with the affected individual. Health Services is working closely with the Onondaga County Health Department to monitor the situation. This is normal and considered best practice.

Please visit the CDC’s website to get more information on the flu, mumps and immunizations. And, to learn more about resources available to the campus community, visit the Health Services website at health.syr.edu. Anyone with questions or concerns may contact Health Services at 315.443.9005.

Sincerely,

Karen Nardella, M.D.
Medical Director, Syracuse University Health Services