By: Megan Farley
April, 25 2018
The past few months have been what we know as “flu season”. Winter is often full of stuffed sinuses, warm foreheads and turning stomachs. It’s the most dangerous time of the year for students who are packed into close spaces together. The passing of viruses and bacteria are intimidating, and the flu shot is pushed upon you.
And so, we move forward into spring where all we have to worry about is allergies, right?
Very wrong. This season, we are seeing an unexpected outbreak of a new strain of the flu. An influx of patients suffering from this new bout of the flu hit the Elmhurst Hospital in Illinois. The symptoms are similar with aches and stomach pains and may last for up to a week. Many are being hospitalized for dehydration and severe stomach pains.
While this may seem startling, this new round of flu is Influenza B in comparison to last season’s influenza A. In the winter, we experienced type A which is often more contagious. Type B flu is a close runner up, however, and the symptoms are about the same. The reason we see Type B rolling around is that people take less precaution after dealing with Type A and think the flu has passed altogether.
But, never fear. While this flu epidemic is lasting much longer than usual, you can take precautions yourself by washing your hands, sanitizing your space, seeing a doctor as soon as the signs show and getting the flu shot. In addition to this, exercising, eating healthy and getting enough sleep is key to keeping away from any illness. Though finals are fast approaching, it is important to watch your health. The Wellness Center is always available to students as well.
