+ Flu Treatment

What are Vaccines and Antiviral Drugs?

So. What's the difference between vaccines and antiviral medication for influenza?

Vaccines

• Vaccines introduce inactivated Flu viruses into your body through a shot with a needle in the arm
• This causes your body to create antibodies that defend you from live Flu viruses.
• The Ryerson Health Center has a free Flu shot clinic every fall. Keep on the lookout for specific dates and times.

Antivirals

• Antiviral medications are drugs that reduce the ability of the influenza virus to replicate and infect you once it is inside your body.
• This can reduce the spreading of influenza and may prevent some serious complications.
• They are usually used by the elderly and people with chronic medical illnesses.
• Talk to your doctor to see if you need an antiviral drug.

What Should I do if I get Pandemic Flu?

First of all - DON'T PANIC. So...what if a Pandemic Comes to Ryerson?

• Keep your self up to date!
  Be on the look out for where you can go to get up to date information about the Pandemic. Ryerson will have information available all year.
• Stay HOME!
  If you do get sick, stay home from school or work to decrease the spread of the flu. You should stay home up to five days after onset of symptoms or until well enough to return, whichever is longer.
• Be prepared!
  Make sure you have lots of soap for hand washing and tissues for covering up at home. Try to buy some extra food and drink in case you get sick.
• Stay Healthy
  Know how to properly wash your hands and how to take care of yourself with the flu. This info will come in handy if you have to take care of an ill family member as well.

How do I Care for Myself and Others if I get the Flu?

• Stay at home and get plenty of rest. This is very important.
• Stock on up on the essentials: tissues, soap, hand sanitizer.
• Drink lots of fluids.
• Use a humidifier for a stuffy nose.
• Keep the room temperature at home near 20oC.
• Gargle with salt water to help with a sore throat.
• Heating pads or hot water bottles can be used to relieved muscle pains.
• Avoid smoking and using alcohol.
• Eat to keep your energy up - smaller and frequent meals are sometimes easier.
• Wash hands well for at least 15 sec. and often.
• Useful Over-the-Counter Medications that May Help
  • Ibuprophen (i.e.: Advil)
  • Acetaminophen (i.e.: Tylenol)
  • Cough Suppressants (i.e.: Cough Lozenges, Robitussin)
  • Aspirin can also help alleviate pain but it should not be given to children.
  • Vitamin C - which you can also easily get from eating fruits or drinking orange juice!
  • If you have any questions about medications, talk to your doctor or pharmacist.

Any questions? www.ryerson.ca/healthservices