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The semester is in full swing, and so are common illnesses, like the flu, common cold and COVID.ÌýÌý
Here are some tips to help you stay healthy this semester and things to do if you end up getting sick.Ìý
Ways to stay healthyÌý
1. Get vaccinatedÌý
Vaccines can help your body’s immune system recognize and defend against a variety of viruses before you get infected. They can also reduce the severity of your symptoms if you end up falling ill.ÌýÌýÌý
Here are two vaccines to consider getting this year.Ìý
2. Avoid the spreadÌý
Practicing good infection-prevention habits can help reduce your exposure to germs and viruses and prevent the spread of illnesses.ÌýÌýÌýÌý
Here are some ways you can help yourself and others.ÌýÌýÌý
3. Take care of yourselfÌý
Did you know that your immune system can be impacted by the things you do every day?ÌýÌýÌýÌý
Here are a few ways to take care of yourself this season.Ìý
What to do if you get sickÌý
1. Stay homeÌý
Here are some more things you can do to prevent the spread of illnesses:ÌýÌý
2. Inform your instructors and supervisorsÌý
If you’re going to miss class or work due to an illness, give your instructors and/or supervisors a heads up.ÌýÌýÌýÌýÌý
Reach out to your instructors directly to explain your situation and let them know you cannot attend class. You should email them any assignments that are due and let them know you will make up any missed coursework. If you think you may be absent for longer, you should communicate that with them and ask them to discuss a plan to keep up in class.ÌýÌýÌýÌýÌý
If you need help navigating class requirements while you’re ill, Student Support and Case Management can help you come up with a plan and connect with campus resources.ÌýÌýÌý
3. Monitor your symptomsÌý
Many illnesses share symptoms, and it can be hard to tell exactly what you have, especially in the early days of an infection. For instance, coughing and headaches are common among many illnesses, including flu, cold and COVID. Testing for COVID can help you narrow down the list of possible illnesses. At-home test kits are available over the counter at the Apothecary Pharmacy and at most local pharmacies.ÌýÌýÌý
While you’re sick, be sure to monitor your symptoms. Most illnesses can be managed at home with basic remedies.ÌýÌýÌýÌý
Here are a few at-home remedies to try.Ìý
Need supplies? Here are some options to get at-home remedies on campus.ÌýÌýÌýÌý
If you’re unsure what to do or have additional questions, call your primary care provider or the main line at Medical Services (303-492-5101). You will be connected with a nurse at Medical Services who can discuss your symptoms and treatment options, including whether you should take care of yourself at home or seek medical care. For after-hours support, you can call your local urgent care or schedule a free virtual appointment on-demand through AcademicLiveCare.ÌýÌýÌý
4. Seek emergency care if neededÌý
If you or someone you know experiences any of these symptoms, seek emergency medical care immediately:ÌýÌý
Call 911 or head to a local emergency room. You can also contact your medical provider if you are experiencing severe symptoms and aren’t sure if you need urgent support.Ìý
Resources
Medical ServicesÌý
Students can call Medical Services at 303-492-5101 to discuss their symptoms and figure out a treatment plan for a variety of illnesses.Ìý
Apothecary PharmacyÌý
The Apothecary Pharmacy offers over-the-counter remedies, COVID tests and prescriptions.Ìý
Wellness SuiteÌý
Pick up free cold, flu and COVID care supplies at the Wellness Suite on the third floor of Wardenburg Health Center.Ìý
Buff BoxesÌý
Students can order free supplies to their residence hall through the Buff Box program.Ìý
Free flu shotsÌý
Students can get a free flu vaccine on campus during drop-in hours or by appointment.Ìý
COVID shotsÌý
Students can schedule a COVID vaccine appointment at Medical Services, with their primary care doctor or at a local pharmacy. COVID vaccines will be billed through your insurance plan.Ìý
AcademicLiveCareÌý
If you need after-hours or weekend support, students, staff and faculty can take advantage of AcademicLiveCare. This free program allows you to schedule free online medical and mental health appointments from anywhere.ÌýÌýÌý