By Joergen Ostensen
The Fordham community is experiencing a significant increase in cases of the flu this semester, compared to past years. According to Maureen Keown, assistant director of University Health Services (UHS), there have been 65 confirmed cases of the flu this semester, as opposed to 14 cases in the same period of time last year.
As a result of the uptick in cases of the flu, Public Safety sent out a letter from Kathleen M. Malara, the executive director of UHC.
“Fordham University has seen a significant increase over last season in cases of influenza (flu) among students, mirroring the increase in cases nationwide,” Malara said in the letter.
Keown said that the most common type of flu that UHS has seen this semester is Influenza A.
Students who are experiencing symptoms such as fever, chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headache or fatigue may have the flu, according to Keown.
More students can be affected by the flu virus.
“Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by flu viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness and usually comes on suddenly,” Keown said.
Keown said students who are experiencing symptoms of the flu can make an appointment at UHS. She urged people at high risk of complications to make an appointment as soon as possible if they experience symptoms.
“High risk people include young children, adults 65 years of age and older, pregnant women, and people with certain medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes and heart disease,” she said.
UHS has antiviral medications that can be given out within two days of the symptoms starting, according to Keown.
“These medications can help shorten the duration of the illness by a couple of days,” she said.
Keown gave instructions for students with the flu.
“Students with the flu are encouraged to rest, stay home and avoid spreading it to others,” she said. “Most healthy people will get better on their own.”
Medical attention may be required if students experience difficulty breathing or shortness of breath, chest pain, sudden dizziness, confusion, severe or persistent vomiting or flu-like symptoms that improve but then return with fever or worse cough, according to Keown.
Students can help to prevent the spread of the flu.
“Students should cover their mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing to prevent the spread of germs. Everyone should wash their hands frequently or use hand sanitizers and keep their hands away from your eyes, nose and mouth,” said Keown. “This may help reduce your risk of infection,” said Keown.
A healthy lifestyle also can help to prevent contraction of the flu. “Getting enough sleep and eating healthy are ways to help boost your immune system too,” she said.
