Influenza Information

Seasonal Influenza (Flu) is a respiratory illness caused by the Influenza Virus.

Influenza Symptoms & Testing

Presenting symptoms are like those of COVID19 and may include fevers or chills, body aches, sore throat, fatigue, congestion or runny nose, headaches, vomiting and/or diarrhea. The Health Center has rapid testing for influenza A and B available for symptomatic students at provider’s discretion. Please call the Health and Wellness Center for an appointment if you are feeling ill. SUNY Oneonta expects all students who test positive for the flu to follow the CDC’s isolation guidelines for respiratory viruses. Although the guidance is the same for all respiratory viruses, it could be helpful to test to know what someone is sick with because testing can prevent transmission and there are antivirals available to treat COVID-19 or influenza. The antiviral medications have been shown to reduce disease severity in several different groups, so if you are in a high-risk group, be sure to test early and contact the health center or your healthcare provider so you can get a prescription for an antiviral as soon as possible.

Preventing influenza

The best way to prevent the flu is to get vaccinated annually. The Health and Wellness Center hosts a flu vaccine clinic on campus in the fall. The flu vaccine is also available at local pharmacies through the end of flu season, which lasts until April.

Taking everyday actions to reduce the spread of flu include avoiding close contact with people who are sick, covering your mouth when you cough or sneeze, washing your hands often, and avoid touching your face.