Fight the Flu - Prevention

Public Health officials warn that this will be a difficult flu season, as we add the threat of Influenza H1N1 to the concern of seasonal influenza.  Both types of flu are currently hitting schools and universities, and Clark College will have cases as well. 

Health Services would like to remind you that prevention is always the best medicine.  Here are some tips to help you reduce your chance of getting the flu.

• Stay informed.  We will provide periodic updates to the community.  You can also check for the latest updates here, or follow Clark College Health Services on Twitter@ClarkHealthServ.  Throughout this year, Clark will be following guidance from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) , Washington State Department of Health, and the Clark County Public Health . 

• Everyone should take these everyday steps to protect your health and lessen the spread of this new virus:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it. If a tissue is not available, please cough or sneeze into your sleeve.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.

• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

• Seasonal flu also continues to be a health threat, killing approximately 36,000 people per year and requiring hospitalization for over 200,000 people. Unfortunately, Health Services has exhausted our supply of flu vaccine, to local a flu vaccine provider near you, click here.  This vaccine is highly recommended for those who are at greatest risk of complications of the flu, or spreading the flu to others.  In general, anyone who wants to reduce their chances of getting the flu can get vaccinated. However, it is recommended by CDC and the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) that certain people should get vaccinated each year.
  
  

• Vaccine for Influenza A H1N1 should arrive within the next few weeks.  At this time we don't know how many doses of vaccine will be allocated to Clark College.  When the vaccine is made available, Health Services will follow the recommendations of the CDC and public health officials regarding priority groups for immunization against H1N1.

By taking steps to protect ourselves and those around us, we keep the entire community healthier. 

For more information, contact your health care provider, Clark County Public Health at (360)397-8021 or call Clark College Health Services at (360) 992-2264.