Down With The Flu? Here's What To Do!

The beginning of the year brings a promising fresh start and a new semester for students. Unfortunately, it’s also peak flu season. Nobody likes being sick, and with the flu, you’re guaranteed to be in bed for a while recovering. Here’s hoping you and yours stay untouched this flu season, but if you happen to catch that nasty virus, don’t worry! Along with visiting your doctor and getting the proper treatment, here are some ways to make sure the flu is short-lived in your house.

Rest. This can be the hardest part for most; our lives move fast, and being put on the sidelines with the flu can be hard, especially for a busy college student. However, it’s recommended that people suffering from flu symptoms stay home and rest until they are at least 24 hours without a fever. Let your body do its work – stay home, turn on Friends reruns (again), and give yourself a break.

Drink water! Dehydration is a real concern with the flu. Making sure you are drinking plenty of fluids is key when it comes to kicking the flu. While water is always best, Gatorade or Pedialyte can help replenish lost electrolytes.

Avoid contact with others. Sharing is caring, but not with the flu. Keep your germs to yourself, and stay home away from others. Trust us – no one in your Calculus class wants the flu, and they would probably be happy to send you any notes you missed.

If your student is sick and needs medical care in Starkville, there are options available. The Longest Student Health Center (LSHC) is located conveniently on campus right behind the library. Visits are free to enrolled students, and any expenses can be charged to your student’s MyState account. They are also equipped with a fully-stocked pharmacy. The LSHC is open on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Thursday from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. For a better chance of being seen promptly, schedule an appointment ahead of time by calling (662) 325-7539.

Another option in town is State Urgent Care, located on Montgomery Street behind CVS. Open 7 days a week 8 a.m. – 7 p.m., the clinic is walk-in only and affordably priced to accommodate your student. They are conveniently about 5-10 minutes from campus and offer fast, convenient care to help you get back to feeling your best. For more information, call State Urgent Care at (662)553-4732.