I think I have flu symptoms. Should I go to Health Services?

Not all students may feel the need to go to SU Health Services (111 Waverly Ave.) for evaluation. Since symptoms are often mild, some students may take care of themselves with extra fluids, over-the-counter cold remedies and rest. Students who wish to come in for medical evaluation should call 443-9005 for an appointment since Health Services is challenged to see students on a walk-in basis due to the high demand for services.

Will I be tested for the flu?

The diagnosis of influenza-like illness can be made clinically based on a presentation of symptoms. This classically includes sudden onset of body aches, fever and cough. Sore throat and nausea may or may not be present. In some cases, a rapid flu test, which tests for Type A and B flu, but not specific type, may be done. But this is not always necessary. For more specific information, see http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/diagnosis/0809testingguide.htm.

Can the rapid flu test available at Health Services distinguish between H1N1 and more common flu strains?

No. Testing for H1N1 specifically is not available in the outpatient setting and is only done under very specific circumstances in the hospital. In New York, testing is only performed at the state laboratory in Albany. For more information on the rapid flu test, visit http://www.cdc.gov/flu/professionals/diagnosis/rapidlab.htm.

If the rapid flu test is positive, then what?

If your rapid flu test is positive, then you have influenza. H1N1 flu is a Type A flu; seasonal strains of influenza include both Type A and Type B. People often want to know which one they have. If the test is positive for flu B, then we know this is seasonal flu; if the test is positive for flu A, we cannot distinguish H1N1 flu from seasonal flu. Treatment, however, is the same for all these types of influenza.

If the rapid flu test is positive, you will be treated based on case presentation, usually with selected over-the-counter medication. Fluids, rest and good nutrition are also encouraged. Ill students are offered flu kits with disposable thermometers, juices and masks to use when they leave their room. You should remain out of class and other activities until the fever is gone for 24 hours.

I have been diagnosed by Health Services as having symptoms of the flu and was sent home to rest. I am not getting better. What should I do?

Most people who get influenza will recover in anywhere from a few days to less than two weeks, but some people will develop life-threatening complications (such as pneumonia) as a result of the flu. People of any age with chronic medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes or heart disease), pregnant women and young children are more likely to get complications from influenza. The flu can make chronic health problems worse. Pneumonia, bronchitis, and sinus and ear infections are three examples of complications from flu. If you are not better, please call Health Services at 443-9005.

Should I go to a doctor or an emergency room?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advises against going to emergency rooms as they are for the most ill people, and you may be exposed to other illnesses while you are waiting to be examined, which can often be an extended period of time.

What do I do if my roommate is sick?

If your roommate is ill, it’s recommended that you practice social distancing. That is, if your roommate is coughing or sneezing try to maintain a distance of several feet from him or her. You should also make an effort to sanitize commonly used items such as doorknobs and remote controls, and avoid sharing food and beverages. Remember, not all people who are exposed to someone with the flu get the flu. However, it’s a good idea to practice common sense and take steps to minimize the risks.

A sick student may ask a roommate to help occasionally by bringing a tray of food from an on-campus dining center. Students are free to agree or decline, but the University encourages students to be kind and help each other. If a roommate is not able to help, ill students living in a residence hall can request a Feel Better Food Pack from the residence hall front desk. A Feel Better Food Pack, prepared by SU Food Services, contains a day’s worth of nutritious comforting foods, including soup, oatmeal, juice, tea and other items recommended for those recovering from the flu.

The University has no plans at this time to relocate sick or healthy students, in keeping with advice from the Onondaga County Health Department and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. However, should either agency make such a mandate the University will comply.

Who at Syracuse University needs to know that I have/or have had the flu?

You should inform your professors that you have been advised to remain out of class for 24 hours after the fever is gone. You may wish to tell your roommate(s) and friends the same thing. You do not need to say that you have the flu unless you wish to do so. If you have been advised to wear a mask, do so when you leave your room to go to the bathroom or go to a dining hall or other public location in order to confine germs and protect others. Careful hand washing, coughing into your sleeve and use of a hand sanitizer to wipe common surfaces can help prevent spread.

If you have a question not answered here, contact SU Health Services at 443-9005 or healthservices @students.syr.edu .