The Communique

Issue date: 10/25/07 Section: Web Exclusive

Media Credit: KSP News

The leaves have started falling, the weather has turned cooler and doctors' offices are filling up.

"We can give basic over-the-counter medications, loan out crutches or wheelchairs and be there if you need someone to talk to," said Maria Canales, campus health office coordinator. "We also refer to two local clinics if [the nurse] feels that we cannot help."

Kirkwood's Campus Health is located in 132 Iowa Hall.

"Get your flu shots," advised Aisha Salameh, Liberal Arts major. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends the flu vaccine for anyone who wishes to reduce the chances of getting the flu. According to a flu brochure in Campus Health, in the U.S. more than 69 million work/school days are lost due to flu every year.

Flu shots are available to Kirkwood faculty for free and to students for a $25 charge. The shots will be available Oct. 30 from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. in the Marland Room on the main campus and Nov. 1 from 7:30-11 a.m. in the Gritter Room on the main campus. Iowa City students can also receive a shot Nov. 1 from 1-3 p.m.

Dr. Andrew Patterson, medical director at Mercy Care South, said," Typically, we start to get busier once school starts. Respiratory infections like bronchitis are the most common ailments." Patterson advised students to dress appropriately for the weather to avoid getting sick.

Mercy Care South is one of two places operated by Mercy Hospital that offers a walk-in urgent care clinic in Cedar Rapids. If students prefer St. Luke's, they also have two walk-in urgent care clinics in Cedar Rapids.







Steps to take to avoid becoming sick

1. Get plenty of rest

2. Eat healthy

3. Abstain from cigarettes and alcohol

4. Drink lots of fluids

5. Enjoy regular physical activity

6. Always wash your hands



SOURCE: "Help on the Way" brochure from Campus Health

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