Are You Still At Risk for the Flu?

"The flu", as it is best known to everyone, not only consists of cough and cold symptoms, and does not have a down time from being contagious. However, the flu is best described as a contagious respiratory illness that is caused by different types of influenza viruses. The flu is different from the common cold and symptoms tend to suddenly appear. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) identify the symptoms of the flu as follows: fever or feeling feverish/chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, fatigue (tiredness), vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.

    Not all people have the symptoms mentioned, however this illness is known to cause mild to severe detrimental effects such as death. There is no specific time for these viruses to have an effect on people's lives; therefore, it is important that you be protected from influenza. Everyone should be aware that there are least 3 types of influenza viruses which include Influenza A, B, and C. There are also subtypes of influenza that may afflict any person at any time of the year.  A good habit is to keep up with influenza prevention practices and the importance of seeking medical attention when necessary.  It may require utilizing the student services on campus where you may be seen by a doctor. The doctor on campus is available on Tuesday and Thursday's from 11 a.m. until he has seen all patients. If you present any of the symptoms listed, it is important to seek medical attention, especially if you have fever greater than 101 degrees Fahrenheit. Symptoms are not the accurate way of diagnosing the flu; it entails diagnostic testing which may include laboratory test, such as blood work, nasal or oral swabs. It is good to be checked within the first 2-3 days of illness.

    As mentioned, the CDC, World Health Organization (WHO), and other organizations identify the influenza as having three different types of viruses. The Influenza A has three subtypes. The 2009-(H1N1) subtype caused the first flu pandemic worldwide in almost 40 years The WHO reported that there were nearly 18,000 deaths as a result of this influenza. Influenza type A also includes the H1N2 and H3N2 subtypes. However, CDC reports, "only some Influenza A subtypes (i.e., H1N1, H1N2, and H3N2) are currently in general circulation among people." 

    Another type of the flu virus is the Influenza B, a virus that only afflicts humans and is known to cause morbidity and mortality. It is known to cause epidemics but not known to cause pandemic. An epidemic occurs when the incidence rate (i.e. new cases in a given human population, during a given period) of a certain disease substantially exceeds what is "expected," based on recent experience. A pandemic is an epidemic of an infectious disease that spreads through human populations across a large region, like a continent.

    CDC reports that Influenza C causes mild illness among people, but it has not caused any severe epidemics or pandemics. Aside from identifying these types and subtypes, different strains also exist.

    "The Flu" is highly active from Oct. to May, and peaks from Jan. to Feb. Prevention is the main goal. The most important form of prevention is receiving the yearly vaccine. Receiving the vaccine yearly helps tremendously; in addition, it allows chemists to identify the different types and strains. For instance, this year's vaccine included protection on H1N1 flu virus that afflicted thousands of lives in 2009. Even if a person doesn't receive the vaccine, it is important to use daily precautions to prevent "the flu".  If you cough or sneeze, cover your mouth with a tissue and throw the tissue into the trash can. If no tissue is available, use the fold of your elbow instead of your hand. Always wash your hands with soap and water. If none is available, use an alcohol based solution for hand sanitizing, The majority of the buildings on campus re equipped with dispensers by the doors and near the elevators. Do not touch your eyes, nose or mouth. If people are sick, they should not be around others and are advised to stay home.

Staying home will decrease chances of others becoming ill. The flu may cause complications for people over the age of 65, people with chronic conditions of asthma, diabetes, congestive heart failure, pregnant women and young children. Risks and complications that may result from the flu may include bacterial pneumonia, dehydration, sinus problems and ear infections.

Everyone continues to be at risk for the influenza virus year round. Students are no exception especially during times of increased stress since their immune system is weaker. It is important not to forget the practice of good prevention every year when vaccines are available. Students should keep posted on upcoming health fairs where vaccines may be available at no cost. The Student Health Services are located at the Student Center Rm. 125. Our university health services offers the vaccine to enrolled students for free. In order to speed up the process to receive the vaccine on campus, there is a registration form that may be downloaded from the website at:http://www.tamiu.edu/wellness/stuhealth.shtml.  Walgreens Pharmacy also offers the vaccine from the beginning of the flu season in Sept. as long as the vaccine quantity is available. Different pharmacies such as HEB, K-Mart, Wal-Mart, Target, and local pharmacies also offer the vaccine. Therefore, everyone should practice good hygiene and prevention of contaminating others who are not sick.