University of Calgary

Fight the Flu: What you need to do

With the end of the fall term in sight, you may feel as though you do not have the time to get sick.  Take precautions to avoid catching the flu, but know that it is important to take care of your health and rest if you are ill.  Staying at home and allowing yourself time to recover allows you to protect yourself as well as your classmates and your professors, as the flu is highly contagious.

If you are feeling unwell, here is a guide for what you should do.

Step 1: Determine if you should stay home or not

The common symptoms of the flu are:

  • Fever (100.4º Fahrenheit or 37.8º Celsius or greater)
  • Cough
  • Muscle aches
  • Lethargy
  • Lack of appetite

Some people have also reported runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea in addition to a cough and fever symptoms.

If you are experiencing these symptoms and are unsure as to whether or not you should stay home, call your doctor, the U of C SU Wellness Centre at 403-210-WELL or Alberta Health Link at 403-943-5465 or 1-866-408-5465.  You can also visit the Alberta Health and Wellness website.

Step 2: Contact your instructor to discuss accommodations

If you need to stay home and self-isolate, contact your instructor to inform them that you will be missing a class or other academic tasks.  Advise them that you are experiencing symptoms of the flu and have chosen to self-isolate in order to prevent the spread of the virus.

Students do not need to give their professors or instructors a doctor's note if they are sick with the flu or experiencing flu-like symptoms.

Your can then work with your instructor on an appropriate extension, accommodation or other way to make up for missed work if necessary. While it is unfortunate you contracted the flu, you are responsible for making up any missed work in order to fulfill course requirements.

Step 3: Self-isolate until you feel well

Self-isolation is very important if you contract the flu, as it is a highly contagious virus.  Stay at home and limit unnecessary contact with others, eat healthy and be sure to get enough rest and sleep. 

In the event that your symptoms worsen (shortness of breath, dehydration, worsening fever, cough or weakness), immediately contact your doctor, the U of C Wellness Centre at 403-210-WELL or HEALTHLink Alberta at 1-866-408-5465.

If you get the flu during final exams, there are special procedures that are being put into place.  Details will be provided on the Enrolment Services website closer to final exam time.