Flu Resources
Flu or Cold?
Where can I get a flu shot? What will it cost?
The Health and Counseling Center is having several flu vaccination clinics Wednesdays on Campus.
All students receive the flu vaccine from the Health and Counseling Center at no cost.
What if I have questions, or need to be seen?
If you have any concerns about your health, please call the HCC Nurseline at 303-871-4133
General Info
Both colds and flu are caused by viruses, and anti-biotics will not help.
Your own body is the best defense mechanism.
Some self-help ideas are:
- Use Advil or Ibuprofen for fever and aching
- Increase fluids in juice, water, tea, etc.
- If you have a fever get plenty of rest
- Try a vapor bath for congestion or aching
- Try a neck warmer to help with sore throat and aching
- If you are coughing, such on a lozenge or hard candy
- Avoid strenuous exercise
Do I Have the Cold or the Flu - Check your Symptoms
| Symptoms | Cold | Flu |
| Fever | Rare | Usually Present |
| Aches | Slight | Usual, often severe |
| Chills | Uncommon | Fairly common |
| Tiredness | Mild | Moderate to severe |
| Sudden Symptoms | Symptoms appear gradually | Symptoms can appear within 3-6 hours |
| Coughing | Hacking, productive cough | Dry, unproductive cough |
| Sneezing | Common | Uncommon |
| Stuffy nose | Common | Uncommon |
| Sore throat | Common | Uncommon |
| Chest Discomfort | Mild to moderate | Often severe |
| Headache | Uncommon | Common |
What is the Flu?
The flu, more scientifically known as influenza, is a highly contagious respiratory infection caused by influenza viruses. The influenza virus usually enters the body through mucus membranes in the mouth, nose or eyes. When a person with the flu coughs or sneezes, the virus then becomes airborne and can be inhaled by anyone nearby.
In most communities, school-age children are the first age group to get the flu. They then carry it into their home and to places where they interact with other kids, such as after-school activities. The flu virus will usually be prominent during the fall and winter, the time of year typically known as "flu season."
Some people, such as older adults, young children, and people with specific health conditions, are at high risk for serious flu complications. In extreme cases, complications can lead to death. On average in the United States each year: 5% to 20% of the population gets the flu; more than 200,000 people are hospitalized from flu complications; and about 36,000 people die from the flu.
Source - www.flufacts.com
