Flu Season is in full swing and has been labeled as widespread in the state of Minnesota as well as 40 other states in the nation. Mayo Clinic Health System – Red Wing reports that they are experiencing an increase in patients presenting with flu-like symptoms. According to the Minnesota Department of Health, hospitalizations due to influenza are nearly 400 times higher than this time last year.

The college has put up posters about hand washing and coughing throughout both campuses to assist in slowing the spread of the influenza virus. In addition, the college will be providing tissues and hand sanitizer in the common areas of campus for students, staff and faculty to take and use. These items will be available by Friday, January 18. The college is also taking extra precautions in the computer labs during this flu season. The computer labs are being sanitized daily to help prevent the spread on campus. Students, staff and faculty are asked to help prevent the spread by washing their hands properly; using tissues when they cough or sneeze and dispose of them properly; and staying home if you do have flu-like symptoms. Nancee Wozney, Dean of Nursing, says "It is important that we all do our part to prevent the spread of influenza to avoid it becoming pandemic."

The Minnesota Department of Health recommends you protect yourself by doing the following:

• Get vaccinated.
• Avoid being exposed to others who are sick with a flu-like illness.
• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, or cough or sneeze into your sleeve.
• Clean your hands often – with soap and water, or an alcohol-based, waterless hand sanitizer.
• Take special care to protect infants. Try not to expose them to large crowds when flu is in your community, and avoid close contact between the baby and family members who may be sick.
• Do not share drinking cups and straws.
• Clean commonly touched surfaces often (door knobs, refrigerator handles, phones, and water faucets).
• Do not smoke around children.

The American Red Cross suggests practicing good health habits to maintain your body’s resistance to infection:

• Eat a balanced diet.
• Drink plenty of fluids.
• Exercise daily.
• Manage stress.
• Get enough rest and sleep.

Flu shots are being offered at Winona State Health and Wellness Complex