4:27 p.m., Feb. 22, 2011----It's flu season, and the Centers for Disease Control are reporting widespread flu across most of the country.

UD's Student Health Services in Laurel hall is seeing an increased number of cases, and students who feel sick are reminded that Student Health is available 24/7.

“The health of our students is our top priority,” Dr. Joseph Siebold, director of Student Health Services, said. “At the same time, there are steps that students -- and other members of the campus community -- can take to lessen their risk of getting the flu. I urge everyone to be pro-active in safeguarding their health.”

Following are some easy steps individuals can take to minimize chances of getting sick:

--Wash hands frequently with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand cleaners, especially after coughing or sneezing.

--Use the hand sanitizer stations located at key locations on the Newark, Wilmington, Lewes and Georgetown campuses. The locations of the touch-free, Purell dispensers are detailed on a map, which is available in PDF format here.

--Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. If you don't have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your elbow or shoulder, not into your hands.

--Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.