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Tips for staying healthy (and what to do if you get sick)

The semester is in full swing, and so are common illnesses, like the flu, common cold and COVID.  

Here are some tips to help you stay healthy this semester and things to do if you end up getting sick. 

Ways to stay healthy 

1. Get vaccinated 

Vaccines can help your body鈥檚 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.   

Here are two vaccines to consider getting this year. 

  • Flu: Students have a couple options to get a flu shot this semester. They can get a free flu shot at one of the flu shot clinics around campus鈥攏o appointment necessary. Students can also visit Wardenburg Monday through Friday from 9-11 a.m. Appointments are encouraged, but walk-ins can be accommodated depending on availability.  
  • COVID: Updated 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccines are available this year at Medical Services. Visit the Medical Services website for more information. 

2. Avoid the spread 

Practicing good infection-prevention habits can help reduce your exposure to germs and viruses and prevent the spread of illnesses.    

Here are some ways you can help yourself and others.   

  • Wash your hands regularly, especially before eating, after using the restroom and after class. Be sure to use soap and warm water for at least 20 seconds or use hand sanitizer. 
  • Remind your friends, roommates and peers to cover their coughs and sneezes, even if it鈥檚 just seasonal allergies.  
  • Wipe down commonly used surfaces in your home or residence hall, including door handles, toilets, faucets, remotes and other areas you and your roommates touch regularly. 
  • Avoid sharing personal products and utensils with others. This includes things like lip balm, food, beverages, vapes and other products. You may also choose to wear a mask to reduce your exposure to respiratory illnesses. 

3. Take care of yourself 

Did you know that your immune system can be impacted by the things you do every day?    

Here are a few ways to take care of yourself this season. 

  • Sleep: Getting seven to nine hours of sleep each night can help strengthen your body and immune system against illnesses. Try creating a routine where you wake up and go to bed at the same time each night to ensure you get enough sleep.  
  • Eating habits: Eating a variety of foods regularly can help you maintain your energy and ward off viral and bacterial infections. Try adding vitamin-dense fruits and vegetables to each of your meals.  
  • Hydration: Staying hydrated can help loosen mucus and increase blood flow. Carrying a refillable water bottle and using water stations around campus is a great way to ensure you stay hydrated throughout the day.  
  • Physical activity: Staying physically active can help your body build resilience against infectious diseases. Strive for at least 30 minutes of activity each day. This can include everything from walks across campus and trips to The Rec to playing yard games outside with friends.  
  • Stress: Taking time to relax and manage stress is important to keep your immune system running at full capacity. When we feel overwhelmed it can impact how we take care of ourselves and decrease our ability to fight off infections. 

What to do if you get sick 

1. Stay home 

Here are some more things you can do to prevent the spread of illnesses:  

  • Disinfect surfaces in your home, especially if you live with more people.  
  • Cough and sneeze into your sleeve, elbow or a tissue.  
  • Increase ventilation by opening windows.  
  • Avoid sharing utensils or personal items with roommates or friends.  
  • Wash your hands regularly.  
  • Wear a mask if you鈥檙e worried about respiratory illnesses.  

2. Inform your instructors and supervisors 

If you鈥檙e going to miss class or work due to an illness, give your instructors and/or supervisors a heads up.     

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.     

If you need help navigating class requirements while you鈥檙e ill, Student Support and Case Management can help you come up with a plan and connect with campus resources.   

3. Monitor your symptoms 

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.   

While you鈥檙e sick, be sure to monitor your symptoms. Most illnesses can be managed at home with basic remedies.    

Here are a few at-home remedies to try. 

  • Drink plenty of fluids like water or tea.  
  • If you are dehydrated, opt for electrolyte beverages like Gatorade or Pedialyte.  
  • Get extra rest to help your body recover.  
  • Use cough drops, gargle with saltwater or try honey sticks to relieve a sore throat.  
  • Use over-the-counter medications to help manage symptoms like nausea or diarrhea.  

Need supplies? Here are some options to get at-home remedies on campus.    

  • Pick up free illness care supplies on the third floor of Wardenburg Health Center in the Wellness Suite.  
  • Order free cold care supplies for on-campus delivery to residence halls through the Buff Box program. 
  • Stop by the Apothecary Pharmacy to purchase COVID test kits, over-the-counter medications and prescriptions.   

If you鈥檙e 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.   

4. Seek emergency care if needed 

If you or someone you know experiences any of these symptoms, seek emergency medical care immediately:  

  • Difficulty breathing  
  • Persistent pain or pressure on chest  
  • Sudden confusion  
  • Inability to wake or stay awake  
  • Bluish lips, face or skin  

Call 911 or head to a local emergency room. You can also contact your medical provider if you are experiencing severe symptoms and aren鈥檛 sure if you need urgent support. 

Resources

Medical Services 
Students can call Medical Services at 303-492-5101 to discuss their symptoms and figure out a treatment plan for a variety of illnesses. 

Apothecary Pharmacy 
The Apothecary Pharmacy offers over-the-counter remedies, COVID tests and prescriptions. 

Wellness Suite 
Pick up free cold, flu and COVID care supplies at the Wellness Suite on the third floor of Wardenburg Health Center. 

Buff Boxes 
Students can order free supplies to their residence hall through the Buff Box program. 

Free flu shots 
Students can get a free flu vaccine on campus during drop-in hours or by appointment. 

COVID shots 
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. 

AcademicLiveCare 
If you need after-hours or weekend support, students, staff and baby直播app can take advantage of AcademicLiveCare. This free program allows you to schedule free online medical and mental health appointments from anywhere.   

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