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University Health Center

H1N1 Information


Seasonal Flu Shots Gone:

The University Health Center (UHC) has been notified that it will not receive its entire seasonal influenza vaccine order this year due to a national shortage and we have run out of the vaccine. The seasonal influenza vaccine manufacturers reduced production on the regular seasonal flu in order to produce the H1N1 influenza vaccine. The UHC apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause and recommends seeking other sources for the seasonal influenza vaccine for those unable to get one at the UHC.

If you are unable to get an influenza vaccine this year remember your most important protection is to wash your hands, cover your cough, and stay home if you are ill.

H1N1 Vaccination Update:

The UHC has received a limited amount of H1N1 vaccine. A walk-in H1N1 flu shot clinic will be held at the UHC (1500 U Street) on Tuesday, Nov. 24, 2009 from 9 a.m. to Noon. This clinic is for UNL STUDENTS ONLY UNDER THE AGE OF 25. The vaccine will be at no charge if you pay UHC facility fees (ie, taking 7 or more credit hours). If you are taking 6 or fewer credit hours, the administration charge for the vaccine is $6 (the vaccine itself is free). You will need your NCard for check-in.

Vaccines for high-risk students between the ages of 25-64 will be by appointment only; call (402) 472-5000 to schedule an H1N1 vaccination. High-risk categories include:

  • Pregnant women
  • Household contacts and/or caregivers for children younger than 6 months
  • Chronic health conditions associated including heart disease, lung disease, asthma, and/or diabetes
  • Weakened immune system
  • Healthcare and emergency medical personnel

Common Symptoms of the Flu:

  • Fever (usually high)
  • Headache
  • Tiredness (can be extreme)
  • Cough
  • Sore throat
  • Runny or stuffy nose
  • Body aches
  • Diarrhea and vomiting (more common among children than adults)

Having these symptoms does not always mean that you have the flu. Many different illnesses, including the common cold, can have similar symptoms.

Diagnosing the Flu:

It is very difficult to distinguish the flu from other infections on the basis of symptoms alone. A doctor's exam may be needed to tell whether you have developed the flu or a complication of the flu. There are tests that can determine if you have the flu as long as you are tested within the first 2 or 3 days of illness.

If you develop flu-like symptoms and are concerned about your illness, especially if you are at high risk for complications of the flu, you should consult your healthcare provider. Those at high risk for complications include people 65 years or older, people with chronic medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease), pregnant women, and young children.

Flu Home Care:

  • Self-isolate at least 24 hours AFTER fever and symptoms have resolved - contact your professor if you are unable to attend class
  • If you live in a residence hall, contact your RA or Front Desk to set-up meal delivery
  • Wash hands frequently with soap or use hand sanitizers containing ethyl alcohol
  • Cover your nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing; cough into your sleeve
  • Use tissues to contain secretions; place in separate bag and dispose daily
  • Over the counter medications you can take for the following symptoms: fever, aches, pains and chills - take Tylenol (acetaminophen) or Advil (ibuprofen); coughing - use Delsym, Q-Tussin DM or Mucinex; nasal congestion - use Sudafed or other oral decongestant, avoid nasal spray; and sore throat - warm salt water gargle (1/2 tsp salt to 8 oz water)
  • Decrease smoking or stop smoking if possible
  • Drink six or more glasses of water each day
  • Eat and maintain a good diet
  • Get adequate rest
  • Finish and complete all prescribed medication

Emergency Warning Signs:

  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
  • Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
  • Sudden dizziness
  • Confusion
  • Severe or persistent vomiting
  • Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough
Flu Bug

More Flu Information:

Why Don't We do it in our Sleeves?

OtoRhinoLounsburgology Productions presents this video on coughing and sneezing methods:

Protect Yourself, Your Family, and Community:

  • Stay informed. Health officials will provide additional information as it becomes available. Visit the CDC Flu website.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. Germs spread this way.
  • Try to avoid close contact with others who are sick and stay home when you are sick.
  • Learn more about how to take care of someone who is ill.
  • Follow public health advice regarding school closures, avoiding crowds, and other social distancing measures.