Given the recent outbreak of serious infectious diseases, as well as seasonal concerns for influenza, the health and counseling center (HCC) is initiating screening precautions to help maintain the health of the community. As we have done for a number of years, we ask those visiting the HCC with symptoms of fever, headache, muscle pain, vomiting, and/or severe fatigue, to don a respiratory mask and use hand sanitizer before entering the clinic. This helps to prevent the spread of illness-generating viruses and bacteria.
In accordance with current CDC guidelines, we will now ask a travel screening question of every student, every time they check-in for an appointment at the clinic. We will ask if the student has traveled to affected areas, or has had close contact with anyone who has, within the last 30 days. In so doing, we will be able to initiate appropriate precautions and treatment. We appreciate everyone’s cooperation with this brief screening measure. As is clear from recent news reports, the recommended practice to screen and monitor those with any symptoms of concern has evolved rapidly, and we anticipate further updates to recommended guidelines as the situation evolves.
What can you do to stay healthy? There are several simple and effective ways to maintain health:
- Wash you hands! Proper hand washing, with soap and warm water, prevents the spread of pathogens that cause illness. Handwashing can reduce respiratory illnesses in the general population by 21-45% (Curtis and Cairncross, 2003).
- Get the flu vaccine
- Get adequate sleep
- Eat well
These simple measures can keep you healthy during flu season and beyond.
Additionally:
If you missed the flu vaccine days at Reed, you can still receive the vaccine at Safeway, ZoomCare, and many other local clinics.