Duke Health: Flu Resources

Duke Health: Flu Resources

Additional information regarding community health, medical services, and requests for appointments can be found at DukeHealth.org.

Preventive Tips

Dr. George Jackson talks about the seasonal flu virus.

Flu-like Symptoms

The flu is typically distinguished from a cold or allergies by a fever of 100◦ F or higher. Symptoms may also include cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body ache, headache, chills, unusual fatigue, diarrhea or vomiting. For information about what to do if you get sick, click here.

What You Can Do To Stay Healthy

Duke faculty, staff and students are encouraged to practice the same kind of hygiene that is recommended every year during flu season:

  • Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, throw the tissue in the trash after use, and wash your hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand cleaner.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth as germs are spread this way, and regularly wash your hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand cleaner.
  • Try to avoid close contact with people who appear to be ill, and regularly wash your hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand cleaner.
  • If you get sick, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
  • Lastly, it is essential at a time like this to regularly wash your hands with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand cleaner.

Get Vaccinated

  • Free vaccinations for seasonal flu will be available to all students, faculty and staff this fall.
  • Vaccination for students will be coordinated by Student Health, and vaccinations for faculty and staff will be coordinated by Employee Occupational Health & Wellness (EOHW). Details regarding the seasonal flu vaccine will be communicated when available.
  • The seasonal flu vaccine will not protect against the H1N1 influenza virus. A separate vaccine is being developed for H1N1, but it is expected to be available in late fall and only in limited supply.
  • H1N1 vaccine, once received, will be distributed based on criteria as defined by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC).

Individuals at Higher Risk

Students with certain underlying health issues (as defined by the CDC) may be at greater risk. Student Health Center staff will be reaching out to those who can be identified through health records but to be certain, any students who believe that they have such risk factors should identify themselves to Student Health providers upon arrival on campus. These students are also encouraged to consult with their personal physicians for additional guidance.

Employees with certain underlying health issues (as defined by the CDC) should consult with their primary care physician for guidance.