FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. – Last week, the Pat Walker Health Center started seeing an increase in confirmed flu cases on campus. With the increase, it’s safe to say flu season has officially hit the University of Arkansas.

“We thought we were going to get by with a mild flu season, but last week we saw a sharp increase in students with confirmed cases of influenza,” says Lyn Edington, director of nursing for the health center. “We encourage students to take the necessary prevention measures. It is not too late to get a flu shot.”

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

“The flu vaccine is still the best way to protect against influenza. If you have travel plans for spring break, there is still time to get a flu shot to prevent illness during your trip.” says Edington.

High-risk patients with flu symptoms should see a medical provider as soon as possible to avoid influenza complications. “If you have asthma, a chronic medical condition, or are on medications that weaken your immune system, you are considered high risk,” says Edington.

“Students who experience flu symptoms – sudden onset of fever, body aches, headache and cough – can take advantage of our walk-in clinic. And, if you are unsure if you have the flu, you can always call and speak to a triage nurse about your symptoms.”

The health center has a walk-in clinic – RazorCare – available for same day diagnosis and treatment. Medical providers have been gearing up for flu cases. If you are suffering from flu-like symptoms, call or go to the RazorCare clinic, located on the first floor in the Primary Care Clinic.

RazorCARE clinic is available:

• 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday
• 9-11 a.m. & 12:30-4 p.m. Monday and Friday
• Patients are seen on a first come, first serve basis.

To learn more about the RazorCARE Clinic, go to http://health.uark.edu/my-health/razorcare.php

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.