Cold Self-Care Guide for On-The-Go-Hokies!
Self-Assessment: Step One
Learn and Practice Self-Isolation
- If you have an influenza-like illness (ILI), stay home for at least twenty-four (24) hours after your fever is gone.* The CDC recommends this exclusion (or self-isolation) period regardless of whether or not antiviral medications are used.
- Wash your hands frequently and properly!
- Practice self-care and be kind to your immune system! Get enough rest, eat well, consume adequate quantities of healthy fluids, relax and avoid smoking and alcohol use. This will help you minimize the amount of time you might be ill.
- Learn and Practice Proper Respiratory Etiquette! Wear a mask if you have an ILI. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. Cover flying phlegm by coughing or sneezing into a tissue, shirt sleeve or turtleneck /shirt collar and not with your hands. Also, don't aim your coughs and sneezes at others.
- Don't reuse tissues and throw them away in an appropriate receptical after use. Sanitize your hands after tissue use.
- Prevent Germ Distribution! Avoid crowds or situations that place you in close proximity to people. (i.e. common areas, class, mass transit, dining halls, etc.) Also, don't share personal Items such as eating utensils, fitness equipment, drinks or drinking glasses. If you must share items, sanitize them and remind others to do so. (especially if a roommate is helping provide your care)
*New (CDC) guidance indicates: People with influenza-like illness (ILI) should stay home for at least twenty-four (24) hours after their fever is gone. (The fever is determined by taking the temperature without being under the influence of fever reducing medicine.) A fever is defined as having a temperature of 100° F. or 37.8°C. or greater. This new (05 August 2009 CDC update) recommendation applies to camps, schools, businesses, mass gatherings, and other community settings where the majority of people are not at increased risk for influenza complications. CDC recommends this exclusion (or self-isolation) period regardless of whether or not antiviral medications are used.
Proceed to step 2 of the self-assessment...
If you are experiencing emergency warning signs, seek immediate medical care