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Show FLU SEASON MyWeberMedia.com | October 11, 2018 | 3 AFFECTS STUDENTS’ PRODUCTIVITY By KAINOA NUNEZ S&T Reporter In an effort to stifle what is purported to be another devastating flu season, Weber State University’s Student Health Center is offering free flu shots to its student body. Weber State University’s APRN-C Marilee Rohan explained why it’s important to get the flu shot early. “The earlier you get the flu shot the better, because you’ll have full immunity by the time the flu vaccine rolls around,” Rohan said. “I encourage students to get the flu vaccine now. That way you won’t be the unlucky student to get flu during finals week.” Rohan said the Student Health Weber State University Center had 900 flu vaccines at the beginning of the semester. It now has 175. Because some patients have an aversion to needles, an intranasal alternative called FluMist is also available. WSU Medical Doctor Shawn D. McQuilkin said the intranasal option actually contains a live, weakened virus, while the flu shot’s virus is dead. “The issue with the nasal spray is it didn’t seem to be quite effective last year,” said McQuilkin. “It may not provide you the same level of protection.” And because the flu season is a time of usual absenteeism, some pro- fessors, such as Susan Matt of WSU’s history department, know that missing class is sometimes unavoidable. “Some good tips are to contact me by email or by phone and to make sure that you’re keeping up with the reading,” Matt said. “It’s always good to contact your classmates.” According to Old Dominion University website, as much as 20 percent of the U.S. population contracts influenza each year, costing more than $10 billion in direct medical expenses. In addition, the CDC estimates an economic impact of $16 billion in lost earnings and productivity due to flu, not including the intangible costs of personal suffering. Children and the elderly are the most susceptible, according to the CDC’s FluView charts. McQuilkin explained flu symptoms to be aware of. “You’re gonna be experiencing fever, sweats, chills, and muscle aches,” McQuilkin said. “And you’ll have a temperature that goes up to 102, 3, or 4, aches and pains all over.” For further questions regarding influenza care, the Health Services Office is located in Shepherd Union Room 190 and can be reached at (801) 626-6459. Comment on this story at signpost.mywebermedia.com |