Cold & Flu
Staying healthy is an important part of your success in school and at work. The tips outlined on this page can help members of the EWU community stay well during times of increased illness. Whether in class, at home or when traveling these tools may help you and those you care about stay healthier.
- Prevention
- So you think you have the flu
- I have the "flu" - What do I do now?
Prevention
Staying Healthy during cold and flu season:
Viruses and bacteria, the germs that cause respiratory infection, are spread from person to person in droplets when a sick person coughs, sneezes or talks: some virus also can be spread when a person touches a surface with the virus on it (e.g., a door handle), and then touches his/her nose or mouth.
Keep germs away:
- Wash your hands before eating or touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
- Wash your hands after touching anyone who is sneezing, coughing, blowing his/her nose, or who has a runny nose.
- Don't share food, utensils or beverage containers with others.
- Don't share things like towels, lipstick, toys, cigarettes or anything else that might be contaminated with respiratory germs.
So you think you've got the flu?
Cold vs. Flu Symptoms
Consult this chart to see which ailment matches your symptoms best.
Click on the following links for more information on the influenza:
Center for Disease Control and Prevention
Flu.gov
World Health Organization
Spokane Regional Health District
American College Health Association
I have the "flu" - What do I do now?
Prevent spreading germs to others:
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and warm water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you sneeze or cough.
- Use a tissue to wipe or blow your nose and quickly throw away used tissue.
- Stay at home to avoid spreading germs when you have a cough or fever.
- Follow your doctor's instructions, including taking medicine as prescribed and getting lots of rest.
- Wear a mask in a medical office, if asked.