Beating the bug
Students not getting flu shots jeopardize community, campus health
College campuses are a breeding ground for influenza. Crammed classrooms and crowded hallways are a part of everyday college life. Unfortunately, the lifestyle often helps the spread of illness among our community members.
As winter approaches, students must safeguard against the flu by taking necessary precautions. That starts with receiving a flu shot.
This past month, the media has been fixated on sickness, specifically the spread of Ebola. “U.S. ramps up fight on Ebola,” reads the Monday edition of USA Today. The New York Times, Wall Street Journal and other major media outlets have also jumped aboard the Ebola bandwagon.
While it is important to contain Ebola and stop its spread out of West Africa, we must not forget we are fighting our own war on disease at home – one far deadlier than Ebola.
Nearly 40,000 people die from the flu each year in the United States. Some 200,000 people are hospitalized, according to a recent report from Harvard University.
Cases of Ebola total less than 10,000 worldwide. That’s a death toll of 4,555 as of Oct. 14, according to the Center for Disease Control.
Despite frightening headlines and sensational television news, Ebola is not an immediate threat on our soil. More attention should be offered to this season’s impending influenza. Although the flu usually peaks in January or February, according to the CDC, cases began to rise alarmingly early last year, in mid-November.
Central Michigan Life published on Monday an article detailing preventative measures students can take in order to stay healthy this winter. Washing hands, keeping hands from your face and strengthening immunity through exercise and balanced diet were among the many pieces of advice.
The strongest method of defense, health professionals agree, is a yearly flu shot.
University Health Services has about 1,200 shots available. Shots are available in Foust Hall 200 from Monday to Friday during normal business hours. In addition, several other clinics and locations carry the shot, such as local pharmacies.
Although adverse reactions to the flu shot are rare, they do exist. You should consult with a doctor to learn more about risks and allergic reactions associated with vaccination.
Less than half of adults aged 18 years old and older will get a flu shot this season. At the very least, students, faculty and staff should take appropriate measures to prevent the spread of germs and strengthen our community’s health.
Your fellow students, faculty and staff will thank you.
