As the weather changes this time of the year, many Temple Owls are gearing up for the start of cold and flu season.
From October to March influenza is the most prevalent, which is why physicians like Dr. Brandi Manning urges her patients to get their vaccines. Dr. Manning works in the Temple’s Infectious Diseases Department, “Now is the perfect time to get your flu shot,” she says.
As the flu strains change year to year; last year being one of the most deadly flu seasons, many people are wondering what to anticipate for this year. But unfortunately, doctors don’t have that answer.
According to Dr. Manning, “Last flu season was more deadly than previous years (due to the H3N2 and the Flu B), and this year could be as well, but we do not know yet which strains are going to be most common.”
She says the best data to prevent getting the flu is to get your flu shot and to wash your hands during flu season. Dr. Manning emphasizes the importance of staying home if you do come down with flu symptoms, in order to not infect someone else.
“You don’t know if the person next to you has a compromised immune system,” she says.
Luckily for Temple Owls, the University is offering a free flu shot clinic this month in the Student Center Underground. The next two days to get the vaccine on Main Campus is on October 24th and October 29th from 8am-4pm.
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