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Avoid getting sick and book an appointment today for your free influenza vaccine. Appointments for flu shots are available to U of A community members on North Campus at the University Health Centre and University Health Centre Pharmacy in SUB. Walk-in clinics are also available at Augustana Campus in Camrose. 

Get your free flu shot

What is influenza?

Influenza is a virus that can be easily passed from one person to another by sneezing, coughing or touching a contaminated surface. People with influenza are contagious the day before symptoms appear and up to 5 days after becoming sick with influenza.

Symptoms of influenza typically include:

• fever
• cough
• muscle aches and pain
• extreme tiredness/fatigue
• loss of appetite
• headache

Influenza typically lasts 7-10 days, or longer if you become sick with complications.

How is influenza treated?

Influenza is a virus. Antibiotics will not treat influenza. Antibiotics are used to treat bacterial infections. The treatment for influenza includes:

• rest (no school or work)
• drink plenty of fluids
• take medication to treat symptoms, i.e. cough
• time

Influenza can cause other health problems to become worse. The most common complications from influenza are pneumonia, dehydration and ear infections.

The best ways to prevent influenza are:

• Get immunized!
• Stay home if you are sick.
• Eat well, exercise, and get a good amount of sleep.
• Cover your cough or sneeze into your elbow.
• Wash your hands often with soap and warm water, or use hand sanitizer.

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