Flu Season in Maverick Country: Protect Yourself, Protect the Herd

Flu season is here, and college students are likely to encounter respiratory viruses in classrooms, residence halls, dining areas, campus events, and other shared spaces. Influenza (flu) is a contagious respiratory illness that can leave you feeling miserable and interfere with classes, exams, work, and everyday activities.

In Texas, flu season typically runs from October through May, with activity often peaking between December and February. Taking a few preventive steps can help protect you and the people around you.

Get Your Flu Shot

Getting an annual flu vaccine is one of the most effective ways to reduce your risk of flu and serious complications. Even if you are generally healthy, vaccination can help protect you and those around you, including people who may be more vulnerable to severe illness.

• Get vaccinated every flu season.

• Aim to get your vaccine early in the season, ideally by the end of October.

• Remember that it takes about two weeks for your body to build protection after vaccination.

• If you have not received your flu shot yet, it is still worthwhile to get vaccinated while flu viruses are circulating.

Free flu shots are available by appointment to eligible students Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM - 12 PM and 1 PM - 4:30 PM. Students can call the appointment line at 817-272-2771 to schedule their flu shot.

Stop the Spread on Campus

Small actions can make a big difference in a shared college environment.

• Wash your hands: Use soap and water regularly, especially before eating and after coughing or sneezing.

• Cover your coughs and sneezes: Use a tissue or your elbow.

• Avoid touching your face: Germs can spread when contaminated hands touch your eyes, nose, or mouth.

• Take care of yourself: Get adequate sleep, stay hydrated, eat nutritious foods, and make time to manage stress.

• Stay home when you're sick: Give yourself time to recover and reduce the risk of spreading illness to classmates, roommates, family members, and coworkers.

Know the Symptoms

Flu symptoms often begin suddenly and may include:

• Fever or chills

• Cough and sore throat

• Runny or stuffy nose

• Muscle aches and body aches

• Headache

• Fatigue or extreme tiredness

• Occasionally, vomiting or diarrhea

Flu symptoms can overlap with COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses, so symptoms alone may not tell you which infection you have.

What Should You Do If You Get Sick?

If you develop flu-like symptoms, rest, drink plenty of fluids, and limit contact with others. Stay home until your symptoms are improving overall and you have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without using fever-reducing medication. Follow any applicable campus attendance guidance and take additional precautions when returning to normal activities.

Contact a healthcare professional promptly if you are at higher risk for complications or your symptoms are worsening.

Eligible students can schedule an appointment to be seen by one of our health care providers for free. Testing for flu, COVID, and strep are $10 each. Prescription and over-the-counter medication are available in our pharmacy at a discounted price.

Seek emergency medical care for warning signs such as difficulty breathing, persistent chest pain or pressure, confusion, inability to stay awake, or severe dehydration.

Protect Yourself. Protect the Herd.

Taking steps to prevent the flu can help you care for yourself, look out for your campus community, and stay focused on your goals.

Learn more: Texas DSHS Flu Information | CDC Flu Prevention | CDC Flu Symptoms