The state of South Carolina and Clemson University are experiencing widespread cases of seasonal influenza. Redfern Health Center staff has seen a dramatic increase in the number of students with flu-like symptoms that include muscle aches, fever and chills, headaches, dry cough and weakness. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention expects the current wave of influenza illness to last for several more weeks and will gradually taper off in the following weeks.
Prevention is the best way to avoid catching the flu. An important preventive measure is to get the flu vaccine. Student Health Services offers the seasonal flu vaccine at Redfern Health Center, no appointment necessary. Students can walk in and get the flu vaccine through the Nurse’s Clinic during the following times: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 8:30–11 a.m. and 1:30–4:15 p.m.; Wednesday from 9–11 a.m. and 1:30–4:15 p.m. The cost is $25.00. Flu shots for employees and community members are available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. at the Joseph F. Sullivan Center located on campus at 101 Edwards Hall.
Practicing good health habits are also effective in preventing respiratory illnesses such as the flu. These include avoiding close contact with people who are sick, regular hand washing or use of hand sanitizers, covering coughs, and keeping hands away from nose, mouth and eyes. Further information and advice about seasonal influenza is available on the Redfern Health Center website.
Persons who are sick with the flu should see their medical practitioner for treatment advice. Those with a chronic medical condition such as asthma or diabetes should seek medical attention as soon as symptoms appear in order to reduce the risk of serious complications. Antiviral drugs are available for treatment of the flu. If taken within two days of getting sick, these drugs can reduce the symptoms of the flu and shorten the time you are sick by one or two days. They also can make you less contagious to others. All of these drugs must be prescribed by a doctor or nurse practitioner and taken for five days.
Redfern available to all university students. Redfern is caring for many students with flu and other respiratory illnesses, so please be advised waiting times may be longer during periods of peak demand. Although Redfern does see patients without an appointment, waiting times are generally shorter if you call ahead for an appointment at 656-1541.
