Influenza spreading across USM campus

With the number of student cases increasing as the weeks goes by, it is no secret that the flu season has found it's way to Southern Miss.

Although many may relate the negative aspects of the flu to things as minor as missing school or work, it can lead to serious problems if untreated.

"For those who have weak immune systems [influenza] can be deadly," said Dr. Virginia M. Crawford, the director of the Student Health Center.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 36,000 people die each year from the flu, and over 200,000 are hospitalized for complications related to the virus. This figure has significantly increased from CDC reports in 2001, which stated figures of 20,000 and 100,000, respectively as noted on WrongDiagnosis.com.

"[College students] are not really [susceptible] because they tend to have stronger immune systems," said Crawford.

But other factors may put students at risk.

"Living in close quarters with others, not getting enough sleep, not getting adequate nutrition and poor hygiene [are major risk factors]," she explained.

Because many college students split rent to save money or live in dormitories on campus, it can be easy for the flu to spread once contracted. Research from the Coordinating Center for Infectious Diseases suggests that after someone becomes ill, they may remain contagious for up to five days after symptoms develop.

The most popular symptoms associated with influenza are fever, muscle aches, sinus problems, nausea and fatigue. These symptoms, which are also associated with the common cold, can easily be misdiagnosed.

If influenza goes untreated in the average adult, interruptions in everyday life may occur.

However, the Student Health Center may be able to help.

Students who think they may have the virus should immediately seek treatment. The Student Health Center is open Monday thru Thursday from 8 a.m. until 5 p.m., and on Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Walk-in appointments are available.

While it may be too late for flu vaccinations, those diagnosed may also purchase Tamiflu from the campus pharmacy for $85. This prescription may help manage symptoms if taken before the virus progresses significantly.