Signs and Symptoms of the Flu (Seasonal and H1N1)
The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times can lead to death.
Symptoms of flu include:
- Fever (usually high—greater than 100 degrees Fahrenheit)
- Headache
- Extreme tiredness
- Dry cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle aches
- Stomach symptoms, such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, also can occur but are more common in children than adults.
First case of H1N1 flu in ISU student confirmed by University officials
Action Steps to Prevent the Spread of Flu
Practice good hand hygiene by washing your hands often and with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your elbow or shoulder; not your hands. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth; germs spread this way.
Know the signs and symptoms of the flu. A fever is a temperature taken with a thermometer that is equal to or greater than 100 degrees Fahrenheit or 38 degrees Celsius. Look for possible signs of fever: if the person feels very warm, has a flushed appearance, or is sweating or shivering.
Stay home or at your place of residence if you are sick for at least 24 hours after you no longer have a fever or signs of a fever (100 degrees Fahrenheit or 38 degrees Celsius) without the use of fever-reducing medications. Staying away from others while sick can prevent others from getting sick, too. Ask a roommate, friend, or family member to check up on you and to bring you food and supplies if needed.
Talk to your health care provider to find out if you should be vaccinated for seasonal flu and/or H1N1 (Swine) flu.
If you are symptomatic, call your health care provider or the Student Health Center before going to their office, or call if you have chronic health issues such as asthma, diabetes, emphysema, cancer, heart disease, blood disorders. If you have chest pain or difficulty breathing call or go to your health center or emergency room right away.
The Student Health Center can be contacted at:
990 Cesar Chavez Ave. (Physical location)
921 So. 8th Ave. Stop 8311 (Mailing address)
Pocatello, ID 83209
Phone: (208) 282-2330
Fax: (208) 282-4036
You may also call the Southeastern District Health Department Communicable Disease office at (208) 478-6303 if you have questions.
To learn more about H1N1 flu, please visit these websites:
- CDC H1N1 flu website
- Swine Flu Information from the Southeastern District Health Department
- ISU's Pandemic Flu Plan