Flu season is upon us! With widespread flu activity reported nationwide, Pat Walker Health Center is urging the campus community to take proactive prevention measures to avoid contracting and spreading the virus.

Flu season can be unpredictable in several ways. And, even though widespread flu activity occurs every year, the timing, severity and duration of peak flu season can depend on many factors.

The best way to prevent contracting and spreading seasonal flu is to get vaccinated. The flu vaccine can also reduce the severity of flu-like symptoms if contracted.

Getting your flu vaccine is simple

Schedule an appointment with the health center's Allergy, Immunization & Travel Clinic by calling 479-575-7723 or online via the Patient Web Portal. The AIT clinic is open 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday.

The cost of the flu vaccine is $20 for students and $50 for faculty/staff. The vaccine can also be billed to insurance, as most health plans cover the cost of the flu vaccine.

Take Everyday Actions to Prevent the Flu

• Avoid sick people and large crowds.
• Wash your hands often and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Seek medical treatment if you are experiencing flu-like symptoms (fever, headache, body aches, cough).
• Practice good respiratory hygiene such as covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough/sneeze.
• Disinfect frequently touched surfaces.
• Get plenty of rest.
• Drink plenty of water and avoid sharing drinks.

For more information and downloadable resources, visit the health center's website.

What to do if you have flu-like symptoms

The health center advises anyone who has a fever and flu-like symptoms to stay home and out of class until they are fever free for 24 hours without the use of fever-reducing medication. This will help slow the spread of the virus.

Students experiencing flu-like symptoms are advised to email their instructors to inform them of their absence from class. The health center does not provide class excuses, so it's important students proactively inform their professors.

Students and faculty may find it useful to use the Absence from Class Form as a means to have appropriate communication about class absences.

If you have any questions, contact the Pat Walker Health Center at 479-575-4451 or visit health.uark.edu.