Colleges work to stop spread of flu virus

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- As the flu virus continues to go around, it's on the mind at many schools and universities. One local university is urging students and staff there to take precautions against the flu.

As students head back to class after winter break at University of the Sciences, some are worrying about grades, others about germs.

Immunologist Stacey Gorski says viruses such as the flu can spread quickly on campuses for several reasons.

One is the flu travels easier in cold temperatures with low humidity.

Another is students spend a lot of time together.

To prevent the flu, Gorski says the university encourages hand washing, puts out hand sanitizer and disinfects daily.

"Especially this time of year in the colder temperatures, the facilities are always making sure that they are doubling down on keeping surfaces clean, especially surfaces that are what we call high touch," Gorski said.

Those include hand railings, water fountains, elevator buttons, and doors

The university also offers the flu vaccine.

Grad student Kristen Dugan got hers.

"It's really important because germs spread easily so I like to be protected," Dugan said.

The vaccine this year is not a good match for the predominant strain going around, but it's still worth it.

It will help protect you against other strains.

"Because of the way the vaccine works it can give you some immunity to the strain that is mismatched so some protection is better than no protection," Gorski said.

Whether you're a student or not, you should know these prevention tips:

-The flu vaccine is recommended for everyone older than 6 months old

-Wash your hands

-Disinfect common surfaces

-Take care of yourself, that means eat healthy, exercise, and get enough sleep