It’s no secret that the flu has been terrorizing the citizens of Madison this season with the constant test make up passes and student and faculty absences, but what exactly is the flu?

“The flu is a virus consisting of many different strains. There’s Strain A, B, and sub-strains of those such as H1N1 and H5. When the CDC (Centers for Disease Control) creates their vaccines they try and determine which strains will show up next season. Luckily, Strain A is what is popping up all over the Madison area and is covered by the flu vaccine,” said Nancy Bocchino, nurse at Bob Jones High School.

Many students and parents alike have been wondering how they can prevent themselves from unwelcome body fluids as well as uncomfortable head and throat symptoms, so what exactly can be done to dethrone this virus from the Madison kingdom?

“Strains mutate constantly, the best way to protect yourself is to receive the flu shot every year, washing your hands in at least 20 minute intervals, keeping hand sanitizer in sight, keeping your fingers away from your eyes, mouth, and nose, sneezing into your arm or elbow and not your hands, throw away all your tissues, and number one stay home when you are sick,” Nurse Nancy Bocchino said.

The average flu symptoms last around one to two weeks and peaks in January and February.  To receive the flu shot, students can go to local pharmacies such as CVS, Rite Aid, and Walgreens. One to two weeks is too much time wasted being sick; be sure to take preventative measures.