The number of reported cases of influenza on Ball State University's campus has increased considerably from last year, said Kent Bullis, medical director at the Amelia T. Wood Student Health Center.
The Health Center was suddenly overwhelmed with flu patients this week, Bullis said. About 100 flu patients came in on Tuesday alone, he said,
Freshman Samantha Tilmans said she was among the flu patients at the Health Center.
"There was nothing they could do for me," she said.
Tilmans said she developed a fever on Sunday, which was shortly followed by a sore throat, achy joints, dizziness and a severe cough.
"Tuesday I couldn't get out of bed," she said.
Bullis said the Health Center staff has provided flu shots to students. He said he also sent out an e-mail to all students with tips about how to prevent contracting of the flu.
For those who have the flu, Bullis said, he recommends staying home from work and school. He said those with the flu should wear a mask if they will be interacting with other people.
He also said it was important to wash hands frequently.
As a safety precaution, people should not share food or beverages with anyone, Bullis said. He said to stay three to four feet away from people with the flu.
Tilmans said she continued to treat her symptoms on her own by taking Tylenol and drinking plenty of fluids. She said she warned her friends she was sick and kept herself in her room for two days to prevent spreading the flu.
Although fewer students received flu shots than last year, Bullis said, he does not think this has much to do with the recent outbreak.
"I think it's just serendipitous," he said.
Usually a small number of students get flu shots, he said.
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