Virus Protection - Universal Messages

The University will continue to reinforce universal messages to reduce the spread of any virus and increase vaccine rates (when a vaccine becomes available). These messages include:

●     Practice good hand hygiene by using alcohol-based sanitizers or washing your hands often with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing. Hand hygiene should be performed before and after every client interaction and every laboratory activity with a classmate.

●     Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. If you do not have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your elbow or shoulder, not into your hands.

●     Stay home or at your place of residence if you are sick for at least 24 hours after you no longer have a fever (100 degrees Fahrenheit or 38 degrees Celsius) or signs of a fever (have chills, feel very warm, have a flushed appearance, or are sweating). This should be determined without the use of fever-reducing medications (any medicine that contains ibuprofen or acetaminophen). Staying away from others while sick can prevent others from getting sick too. Self-isolation includes not attending classes, not eating in the dining halls and not attending any other group function or co-curricular activity. Students who exhibit flu-like symptoms should be evaluated in person or by phone at University Health Services as soon as possible. Consult with University Health Services if you are sick and must stay home from class.

●     Talk to your healthcare provider or University Health Services regarding seasonal flu vaccinations

●     Check E-Net for vaccine administration dates on campus.

Students should attend all scheduled classes or activities unless they are ill. However, students who are ill should stay home and self-isolate according to CDC recommendations. Students should notify the course professor and the DPTE Administrative Assistant as soon as they realize they are ill and cannot attend class. Students who are ill and have flu-like symptoms should consult with Health Services by phone or in person regarding their illness. This will allow for appropriate assessment and treatment and will create a documentation source for notifying faculty members if a student must self-isolate and miss classes. Missed coursework or assignments may need to be addressed.