More Than 100 UM Students, Faculty With Flu

By Alyssa Schnugg
News Editor
alyssa.schnugg@hottytoddy.com

Flu season hit the University of Mississippi hard this past week, with the Student Health Center having at least 100 people test positive for the flu.

On Tuesday, the university sent out an email to students, faculty and staff with a list of suggestions on how to protect themselves from the flu and what to do if they are diagnosed to help stop the spread of the virus.

Students who have tested positive are provided a memo encouraging them to avoid class and close contact venues until they are symptom-free for 24 hours without the use of medication.

The state of Mississippi saw a High Flu Activity Level last week, according to the Center for Disease Control.

Campus building mayors have posted influenza information in building restrooms, including prevention tips and how to manage symptoms.

Junior Benton Dodd was at Farley Hall Tuesday afternoon even though he admitted he didn’t feel well. He said he was worried about missing class and having his grade lowered.

“I’m just trying to go to bed early and drink lots of fluids,” he said.

While the university encourages faculty and students to work together on missed classes and assignments, Dodd said some faculty will still lower grades even with a doctor’s note.

“I have one (professor) who says there is ‘no such thing as an excused absence,’” he said. “So they tell us to stay home but we really can’t.”

Ashely Cranks, also a junior, said she has avoided the flu so far this year.

“I know it’s a big problem though,” she said. “A lot of my friends are missing class.”

Cranks also said that many of her sick friends haven’t gone to the doctor due to lack of open appointments at the SHC and out-of-pocket expenses at local clinics.

The CDC recommends the following steps to protect yourself from the flu:
• Avoid close contact with sick people.
• While sick, limit contact with others as much as possible.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth.
• Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with flu germs.
• Practice good health habits, including drinking plenty of fluids and eating nutritious food.