安全提示｜流行性感冒预防知识

Tips | Flu Prevention for international students

Here are some practical flu prevention tips for international students:

1. Get Vaccinated (Most Important Step)

Get a flu shot every year. The flu virus changes each season, so annual vaccination is essential.

Where to get it: Most university health centers, or community clinics offer flu shots, often at low cost.

Timing: Get vaccinated by the end of October, if possible. It takes about two weeks for protection to develop.

2. Maintain Good Hygiene

Wash your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after coughing, sneezing, or being in public spaces.

Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer (at least 60% alcohol) if soap and water aren't available.

Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

Cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue or your elbow, not your hands. Dispose of tissues immediately.

3. Keep Your Living Space Clean

Regularly disinfect frequently touched surfaces in your dorm or apartment: doorknobs, light switches, desks, keyboards, and your phone.

Ensure good ventilation by opening windows periodically to let fresh air circulate.

4. Boost Your Immune System

Eat a balanced diet: Prioritize fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.

Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.

Get enough sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Lack of sleep weakens your immune system.

Manage stress: Academic pressure and cultural adjustment can be stressful. Use healthy coping mechanisms like exercise, meditation, or talking to friends.

Exercise regularly: Moderate physical activity can help boost your immune function.

5. Practice Social Habits

Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

If you feel sick, stay home from classes, libraries, and social gatherings to prevent spreading illness. Notify your supervisors if needed.

Consider wearing a mask in crowded indoor settings during peak flu season or if you are in a high-risk group.

6. Be Prepared

Know the symptoms: Fever, chills, cough, sore throat, runny/stuffy nose, muscle aches, headaches, fatigue.

Have a basic health kit ready:

A digital thermometer

Over-the-counter medicines for fever/pain (like acetaminophen or ibuprofen)

Cough drops

Tissues

Know where to go for medical help: Save the contact info for your university's health center, a local clinic, and urgent care. Understand your health insurance coverage.

7. Take Extra Care in High-Risk Situations

The flu can be more severe for some. Be especially vigilant if you have chronic health conditions (like asthma, diabetes) or are pregnant.

Summary for Student Life:

Get the shot.

Wash your hands.

Don't share drinks or utensils.

Sleep well, eat well.

Stay home if you're sick.

By following these steps, you can significantly lower your risk of getting the flu and ensure a healthier, more productive academic year. If you do develop severe symptoms (like difficulty breathing, chest pain, persistent high fever), seek medical attention promptly.

Reference:

Tips from China CDC: Influenza prevention and control

Learn about influenza A

 Flu Prevention Tips.pdf