About Influenza
Avoid getting sick and book an appointment today for your free influenza vaccine. Appointments for flu shots are available to U of A community members on North Campus at the University Health Centre and University Health Centre Pharmacy in SUB. Walk-in clinics are also available at Augustana Campus in Camrose.
What is influenza?
Influenza is a virus that can be easily passed from one person to another by sneezing, coughing or touching a contaminated surface. People with influenza are contagious the day before symptoms appear and up to 5 days after becoming sick with influenza.
Symptoms of influenza typically include:
- fever
- cough
- muscle aches and pain
- extreme tiredness/fatigue
- loss of appetite
- headache
Influenza typically lasts 7-10 days, or longer if you become sick with complications.
How is influenza treated?
Influenza is a virus. Antibiotics will not treat influenza. Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections. The treatment for influenza includes:
- rest (no school or work)
- drink plenty of fluids
- take medication to treat symptoms, i.e. cough
- time
Influenza can cause other health problems to become worse. The most common complications from influenza are pneumonia, dehydration and ear infections.
The best ways to prevent influenza are:
- Get immunized!
- Stay home if you are sick.
- Eat well, exercise, and get a good amount of sleep.
- Cover your cough or sneeze into your elbow.
- Wash your hands often with soap and warm water, or use hand sanitizer.