University Protocols for Handling Suspected Flu Cases
Symptoms:
- Fever of 100 degrees or more that is not reduced by fever-reducing medication (advil, ibuprofen, etc.)
- Body and Muscle Aches
- Cough, Sore Throat, Runny Nose
The Flu or H1N1?
The CDC is recommending we treat every positive Influenza A/B test as if it could be H1N1.
When to report to the Health Center
- Students should report to the health center at the onset of the above symptoms.
- Every student exhibiting flu-like symptoms will be tested for Influenza A/B in the Health Center to verify or dismiss a flu diagnosis. The test will cost $11.00 and the charge will be automatically placed on the student's account.
- If diagnosed early enough, students may be prescribed Tamiflu. A local pharmacy will deliver to the campus if the student has previously set up an account. (contact Health and Wellness Center for more information)
- Students who seek treatment off campus should notify the health center immediately if they receive a flu diagnosis.
Three Options for Recovery:
- Students can choose to leave campus and recover at home (highly recommended if possible)
- Students can self-isolate in their campus residence
- If the student wishes to self-isolate and their roommate is in agreement, they will follow certain protocols detailed in the "Flu Agreement" document, which will be available at the Health Center. The "Flu Agreement" outlines appropriate steps to prevent the spread of the virus during said period. Students will be checked daily by university staff and will be cleared to return to class once they are fever free without medication for 24 hours.
- Students can request to be moved to an isolation area if space permits
Classes
The University has every intention of remaining open and continuing with its programs and services for the campus community. However, it is unacceptable for a contagious student to attend class and put others at risk. Faculty are willing to work with students who have verified illnesses. Students with verified medical conditions will not be penalized for being ill. However, it is the student's responsibility to contact professors in a timely manner regarding missed material and assignments.
Meals for Students
- For Students on Meal-plans: Meals from Sodexo will be delivered to students during self-isolation or who are residing in university isolation. Students will be given instructions regarding this process when they receive the "Flu Agreement" from the Health Center.
- For Students not on Meal-Plans: If the illness has been verified by the Health Center, the university will provide food options for students in villages and fraternity houses for a designated period of time. These meals will be delivered directly to the student.
What if an ill student shows no sign of improvement?
Students who exhibit severe symptoms or who have symptoms persisting for more than five days may be referred to the local hospital.
When can an infected student return to class or campus?
Students who test positive for Influenza A/B will be allowed to return to class once they are fever free without medication for 24 hours.
Will parents be notified of their student's illness or condition?
Due to medical privacy laws, students will have the option of granting permission for the University to notify the emergency contact person designated on the health card. If permission is granted, information will be shared with individuals as designated by the student.
(NOTE: if condition escalates and threatens the long term health of a student, the University may contact the designated the emergency person)
