Online only: Health services advises for flu shot
This article has been changed from the printed edition.In anticipation of this fall's likely flu surge, Student Health Services is encouraging students, faculty and staff to obtain a flu vaccine. Staff Physician Jessica McKelvey said Student Health will be offering vaccinations during the upcoming flu season free of charge for faculty and $13 for students.However, students with medical conditions that put them at increased risk of the flu can receive a vaccination for free.
As of Aug. 14, the city of Houston listed over 420 confirmed cases of the H1N1 flu virus, commonly known as swine flu, according to its Web site,houstontx.gov/health/swineflu.html. Symptoms of the virus are similar to those of the common flu, such as fever and coughing, ranging in levels of severity.
McKelvey said simple measures can be taken to reduce the risk of flu infection and outbreak starting by maintaining basic hygiene. Regular hand-washing with soap and water, or by using alcohol-based hand cleansers, diminishes the potential transmission of the virus. Using and disposing of tissues when coughing or sneezing also helps limit viral transmission to others. Avoiding interaction with those who are ill also helps to avoid excess risk of contamination.
Most people recover within five to seven days, McKelvey said.
However, if anyone contracts flu-like symptoms, he or she should not rush to the Health Center. According to Dr. Mark Jenkins, "It is expected that most people with influenza will recover without the need for medical attention. ... The concern is that large numbers of people who do not need treatment will overload existing health care resources, leading to significant harm.
More from The Rice Thresher
Rice SJP ‘liberated zone’ ends, university removes artwork in ‘beautification efforts’
The “liberated zone” on Rice campus and associated events ended Friday, April 26, after four days of programming, according to the Rice Students for Justice in Palestine Instagram page. Unlike overnight encampments spreading at college campuses across the country, Rice SJP disassembled the “liberated zone” each night and returned the following morning. And in contrast to clashes and escalating police responses that have led to some 2,000 arrests from Los Angeles to Hanover, N.H., there were “no major incidents and no arrests” at Rice, according to President Reggie DesRoches.
Rice’s Luke McCaffrey selected by Commanders in NFL Draft
The Washington Commanders selected Rice wide receiver Luke McCaffrey with the 100th overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. McCaffrey was the final pick in the third round, as well as the final pick on the second day of the draft. He’ll compete for a prominent role in the wide receiver room, potentially slotting in as their starting slot receiver alongside Terry McLaurin and Jahan Dotson.
Rice Students for Justice in Palestine declares ‘liberated zone’ on campus
As student protests erupt across the country, Rice Students for Justice in Palestine launched a “liberated zone” on Rice campus, announced a two-day series of events and started construction on an “apartheid wall.”
Please note All comments are eligible for publication by The Rice Thresher.