Health, Wellness, and Safety

  • Protect Yourself From the Flu Virus

    Dear Students, 

     

    The Connecticut Department of Public Health has declared influenza (the flu) to be “widespread” in the state. As you return to campus, we want to let you know that we at Student Health Services are taking steps to help prevent the spread of the flu, but we need your help.

     

    The flu virus is spread mainly from person to person through the coughs and sneezes of infected individuals. You can also become infected by touching an object or surface with flu virus on it and then touching your mouth, nose or eyes. Below are a few things you can do to promote good health and reduce the spread of the virus.

     

    • Get Vaccinated - It is not too late to get protected! Flu shots are available at Student Health Services and are free of charge.
    • Have good respiratory etiquette – cough and sneeze into tissues, your arm or elbow, not into your hands.
    • Practice good hand hygiene – wash hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol based hand sanitizer.
    • Avoid touching your eyes, nose – this can spread the virus from an infected surface to you.
    • Stay healthy – get plenty of sleep; exercise appropriately; manage your stress; eat nutritious foods; and drink plenty of liquids.
    • Be knowledgeable – symptoms of the flu include fever, muscle aches, headache, cough and runny nose. If you have these symptoms, please call the Student Health Services Advice Nurse (486-4700: option #1). Students with underlying medical conditions such as asthma are at increased risk of complications from the flu. Call us. We can help.
    • Avoid contact with others if you are ill – Self-isolate: stay home from work or school if you are ill. Only return when you have been symptom free for 24 hours.

     

    Our goal at Student Health Services is to keep you healthy. Please let us know if you have any questions or concerns.

     

    Ellyssa Eror, MD

    Interim Medical Director

     

    UConn Student Health Services

    234 GLENBROOK ROAD, UNIT 4011

    STORRS, CT 06269-4011

    PHONE: 860.486.4700

    FAX: 860.486.0004

    shs.uconn.edu

    Accredited by the Accreditation Association for Ambulatory Health Care (AAAHC)

    For more information, contact: shs@uconn.edu at 860-486-4700