Our Blog

Flu Shots

By: Libby Skiles, Health Center

Each year we anticipate and prepare for the flu season in hopes that we can minimize illness on our campus. We have already seen several cases of flu-like illness on campus and anticipate that this will continue as the flu season approaches.

A few weeks ago, we communicated with all of our students, staff, and faculty regarding tips to protect themselves and others from the flu. As parents, you can help your student stay healthy by encouraging them to follow this advice.

  1.  Get a flu shot
  • The CDC recommends this as the first and most important step your Zag can take in preventing the flu.
  • Shots are available now in the Health Center.  The cost for students is $5. There will be multiple flu shot clinics occurring on campus in the month of October. Information will be published in the Gonzaga Bulleting regarding specific dates, times, and locations.
  1. Use basic preventative techniques to prevent the spread of germs
  • Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
  • Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. Throw the tissue in the trash after use.
  • Wash hands often with soap and water. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
  • Avoid touching eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way.
  • Clean and disinfect surfaces and objects that may be contaminated with germs like the flu.
  1. If your student does get sick
  • If your student is sick with flu-like illness, the CDC recommends that they stay home for at least 24 hours after their fever is gone, except to get medical care or for other necessities.
  • The Student Health Center is available to care for students Monday through Friday, 8a – 5p; Wednesdays 10a-5p.
  • While sick, students should limit contact with others as much as possible to keep from infecting them.
  • Students should always communicate with their professors if they need to miss class due to illness.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact the Student Health Center at 509-313-4052 or studenthealth@gonzaga.edu.

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