When to Seek Help

Generally, people with the flu (the new H1N1 flu, as well as seasonal flu) can manage recovery at home with little or no medical attention. However, certain people are at higher risk of serious flu-related complications.

Risk groups

According the CDC, these individuals should consult with their health care providers with the onset of flu-like symptoms, or following recent close contact with someone who has the flu:

• children younger than 5, but especially children younger than 2 years old
• Adults 65 years of age and older
• Pregnant women
• People who have:
  • Cancer
  • Blood disorders (including sickle cell disease)
  • Chronic lung disease [such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease  (COPD)]
  • Diabetes
  • Heart disease
  • Kidney disorders
  • Liver disorders
  • Neurological disorders (such as epilepsy, cerebral palsy, brain or spinal cord injuries, moderate to profound intellectual disability [mental retardation] or developmental delay)
  • Neuromuscular disorders (such as muscular dystrophy and multiple sclerosis)
  • Weakened immune systems (such as people with HIV or AIDS or who are on medications that weaken the immune system )

In addition to considering immunization against the flu, individuals in the above groups should also talk with their health care providers about the benefit of receiving a pneumococcal vaccine.

More serious symptoms: a warning sign

People who have the flu and develop any of the following symptoms should call a health care provider without delay for medical advice or attention.

• difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
• sudden dizziness
• confusion or change in level of consciousness
• severe or persistent vomiting 
• severe sore throat, accompanied by swollen glands in your neck
• flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough
• unidentified rash 
• fever of over 101 degrees lasting for more than three days

Call Gannett

Any student with concerns about their health, symptoms, or ability to care for themselves can CALL GANNETT ANY TIME DAY OR NIGHT: 255-5155.

If our building is closed and it's recommended you seek help elsewhere, read the information on transportation, below.

Transportation to the Hospital or Convenient Care

You may be advised to get care at Cayuga Medical Center's Emergency Department or Convenient Care. If an ambulance is not necessary, call a taxi to transport you to and from your destination. You can charge the cost of a taxi ride to your Gannett account. Learn more about this service.

NOTE: If you receive care at another facility, be sure to ask the health care staff to send a record of your visit to Gannett so we can provide follow-up care and support.

---

Non-urgent help  

Help is all around you. Any person with the flu can benefit from a little extra assistance while they are staying out of circulation. Students are encouraged to:

• request a free home flu kit from Gannett
• ask a friend to deliver drinks, food, and other supplies as needed

Students living on campus can also:

• consult with residential staff who can provide assistance
• ask a friend to pick up a sick tray from Cornell Dining
• request a free home flu kit from Gannett, available through Campus Life