Influenza
Influenza is an acute disease caused by a specific virus and it usually occurs in epidemics. Primary symptoms are fever, cough, headache, muscle aches and weakness out of proportion to what one would expect with a common cold.
Symptoms usually appear one to three days after exposure. There is usually a sudden onset of headache, fever (range 100 – 103 F), muscle aches (usually in the legs and lower back, but sometimes affecting abdominal muscles), and cough. Stomach and intestinal symptoms are not common. Acute symptoms usually last 2 – 3 days but complete recovery can take up to a week.
Treatment
Take good care of yourself! Rest and fluids such as Jello, tea, water, broth and soda are important. Acetaminophen tables (two every 4 – 6 hours) are good for fever and muscle aches. If the cough is severe and keeps you from resting, the Student Health and Wellness Center may prescribe a cough medicine. Gradual return to full activities is advised.
NOTE: Antibiotics do not affect the course of uncomplicated influenza nor is there any evidence that they prevent complications.
Complications
Complications are not common, but may include ear infections, sinus infections or pneumonia. If you suspect you may have a complication, you should come to the Student Health and Wellness Center. Also, it is uncommon to have a temperature over 100 F past the third day and a severe cough should not last more than a week. If these occur, you should come to the Student Health and Wellness Center and be examined by the physician.
If you have any questions or problems, please call us or come in to the Health and Wellness Center on campus.
