Health Center Urges U of A Community to Seek Medical Treatment, Stay Home With Flu-like Symptoms

Last week, the Pat Walker Health Center announced they were seeing an increase in flu cases on campus. Currently, over 10 percent of patients being seen at the health center are confirmed flu cases, which is higher than the percentage of flu-related emergency room outpatient visits, as reported by the Arkansas Department of Health.

"Over the last few weeks, as expected, we are starting to see a spike in flu-like symptoms," said Mary Alice Serafini, executive director of the health center. "There is no question about it, the flu season is in full-force on campus."

Students, faculty and staff who experience flu-like symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, headache, fatigue and body aches, should seek medical treatment in a timely manner to reduce the severity of the flu.

"We encourage all students, faculty and staff to practice good respiratory hygiene by covering their cough," said Serafini. "The flu is contagious, and healthy adults can infect others up to one day before they even experience symptoms."

If you begin to show flu-like symptoms, avoid social gatherings and large groups (i.e. class, work, social events) until you are fever free for 24 hours without medication. "We recommend students, staff and faculty showing symptoms, to stay home and avoid spreading the flu to others," says Serafini. "Students that need to miss class because of the flu are encouraged to communicate with their professors as soon as possible."

The health center's Allergy, Immunization and Travel Clinic still has a limited number of flu vaccines left. Students, faculty and staff can call 479-575-7723 or use the patient web portal at myhealth.uark.edu to make an appointment for a flu shot.

"The best way to prevent getting the flu is by getting a flu vaccination," said Serafini. "For those who already have the flu, you can help prevent spreading to others by isolating and caring for yourself accordingly."

Knowing what to do if you get the flu may help you feel better sooner and prevent others from becoming sick. See the health center's handout on Navigating the Flu. Other tips include: Washing hands frequently, especially before touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Cleaning and disinfecting surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with flu germs.

Have flu-like symptoms? Schedule an appointment with the health center at myhealth.uark.edu, or call 479-575-4451. Students can also take advantage of the health center's same-day walk-in clinic, RazorCare.