The message in this note was sent to students to help them take care of themselves and reduce the spread of the flu and other viruses as they prepare to begin spring semester.
Dear Students,
As we prepare to begin spring semester, this message contains important information and updates about taking care of yourself and reducing the spread of the flu and other viruses. As you know, Elon managed an outbreak of the mumps last fall. We believe that our confirmed cases remained low relative to other campuses because most students followed recommendations of the university and local and state health officials to prevent the spread of the virus. We are now in the most active period of flu season, so we need the same level of diligence and cooperation to promote a healthy campus community.
Flu Vaccination
We have already experienced an increase in flu diagnoses at Student Health Services, but it is not too late to get your flu vaccine, which is the most effective way to provide protection against the virus. Each year, most students who seek treatment have not received the flu vaccine. Also, for the few strains that may not be covered in this year’s vaccine, the severity of the flu seems to be less for those who get the flu after they’ve received the vaccine.
The final on-campus flu vaccine clinic for students will be Wednesday, Feb. 5, from 2-5 pm in Koury Athletic Center Concourse, while vaccine supplies last. There may be an initial cost of $25 – students should bring their insurance card to be filed or may request that any charges be posted to their student account. Students do not need cash to receive the vaccine.
Students, faculty and staff may also receive a flu vaccine at any local pharmacy with little or no out of pocket cost by presenting their insurance cards. Vaccine supplies may be limited so you are encouraged to get your flu vaccine as soon as possible, if you have not already.
Preventing the Spread of Viruses
As always, the campus community is urged to practice safety measures to reduce the spread of viruses, including the flu:
- Covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, and put your used tissue in a trash can. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve or elbow, not your hands.
- Washing your hands often with soap and water. Use alcohol-based wipes and hand sanitizers if soap and water are not available.
- Avoiding sharing objects that might have saliva on them, like water bottles, cups, cigarettes, or vaping devices.
- Disinfecting frequently touched surfaces, such as doorknobs, tables, counters.
- Stay home if you are ill and minimize your contact with others until you are well. Consult with a medical provider.
We encourage you to regularly use the hand sanitizer stations in place at every building. Environmental Services staff normally use disinfectant in their regular cleaning at this time of year. They have already begun their routine of increasing the application of disinfectant on common contact surfaces and are being particularly vigilant about this part of their cleaning during flu season. However, students should be attentive to disinfecting their personal space and belongings.
About the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (2019-nCoV)
In recent weeks, you have likely heard news reports about a strain of coronavirus that originated in Wuhan, China. The threat to the Elon community currently is considered low, but outbreaks of new viruses in humans are always a public health concern. Elon University Student Life staff, the Global Education Center (GEC), and local and state health department officials are monitoring this evolving situation and have developed protocols for response. Since information regarding this disease is changing quickly, we advise you to check the CDC website for the most up-to-date details and guidance.
As you would at any time, if you begin to experience symptoms of the flu or other respiratory viruses you should consult with a medical professional. Students may schedule an appointment with Student Health Services and faculty/staff may consult with Faculty/Staff Health & Wellness Clinic or their primary care provider. A list of after-hours medical resources may be found at https://www.elon.edu/u/health-wellness/health-services/after-hours-and-summer-care/.
We wish you a safe and well Spring semester!
—
Dr. Jon Dooley
Vice President for Student Life