Massachusetts has not officially listed itself as having the flu but from the numbers of students and the types of symptoms seen in the WPI health services this week we are sure it is here. Whether or not it is the flu or flu-like the symptoms and treatment are the same. Colds and flu are the most frequent health complaints seen on our campus and are both caused by viruses. The symptoms caused by these viruses can range from minor annoyance to an extended thoroughly debilitating illness. Cold symptoms may include a sore throat, nasal or ear congestion, fatigue, a runny nose, sneezing , headache, hoarseness, and/or a mild fever. The discomfort may continue for a few days or for as much as a week or so.
Flu is a more severe illness, which often includes a high fever, weakness, dry cough, aches all over the body and a distinct sick feeling. Symptoms usually begin to subside after 1-2 days, although occasionally it can last a week or more.
When you have a virus, you can treat the symptoms but not the germ itself. Viruses do not respond to antibiotics. It is your own immune system that will ultimately dispose of the virus; until then, all you can do is minimize the discomfort. Some suggestions:
REST: For fever or fatigue and aches, you should go to bed. Increase your activities gradually as you feel better.
Most virus-related symptoms (fever, congestion, muscle aches) are normal. However you should come to Health Services if you cough up green, yellow or bloody mucous, your nasal secretions are yellow or green, you have pain in your ears, neck or sinuses, you have pain or wheezing in your chest, your fever remains above 101 and doesn't subside for three days or goes above 103, or you have been diagnosed as having asthma, emphysema, heart problems or insulin dependent diabetes.