What to do if you get sick
ÌýÌýStay homeÌý
Take time to rest and recharge. Staying home not only speeds your recovery, but it’s also one of the best ways to look out for your campus community. Here are some more things you can do to prevent the spread of illnesses:Ìý
- Disinfect surfaces in your home, especially if you live with more people.ÌýÌý
- Cough and sneeze into your sleeve, elbow or a tissue.ÌýÌý
- Increase ventilation by opening windows.ÌýÌý
- Avoid sharing utensils or personal items with roommates or friends.ÌýÌý
- Wash your hands regularly for at least 20 seconds with soap and water.Ìý
- Wear a mask if you’re worried about respiratory illnesses.ÌýÌýÌý
ÌýÌýInform your instructors and supervisorsÌý
If you're feeling sick and need to miss class or work, reach out to your instructors or supervisors as soon as possible. Send a quick email to let them know what's going on and that you won’t be able to attend. Be sure to mention any assignments that are due and offer to catch up on missed coursework when you’re back. Clear communication helps you stay on track and shows responsibility.Ìý
If you think you may be absent for longer, you should communicate that with them and ask them to discuss a plan. You can also contact Disability Services if you have a temporary medical condition, including illness, injuries or surgery.Ìý
ÌýÌýMonitor your symptomsÌý
Many illnesses share symptoms, and it may be hard to tell exactly what you may have, especially in the early days of an infection. For instance, fatigue, fever, sore throat and headaches are common among many illnesses including flu, cold, mono, strep throat and COVID. Testing at Wardenburg Health Center or a local medical clinic can help you narrow down the list of possible illnesses. At-home test kits for COVID and the flu are available over the counter at the Apothecary Pharmacy. Most local pharmacies also carry COVID test kits as well as combined test kits for both influenza and COVID.Ìý ÌýÌý
While you’re sick, be sure to monitor your symptoms. Most illnesses can be managed at home with basic remedies.ÌýÌýÌý
Here are a few at-home remedies to try:Ìý
- Drink plenty of fluids like water or tea, or electrolyte beverages like Gatorade or Pedialyte.Ìý
- Get extra rest to help your body recover.ÌýÌý
- Use cough drops, gargle with saltwater or try honey sticks to relieve a sore throat.ÌýÌý
- Use over-the-counter medications to help manage symptoms like nausea or diarrhea.ÌýÌýÌý
Need supplies? Here are some options to get at-home remedies on campus:Ìý
- Pick up free illness care supplies on the third floor of Wardenburg Health Center in the Wellness Suite or at Village Center Wellness.Ìý
- Order free cold care supplies for on-campus delivery to residence halls through the Buff Box program.Ìý
- Stop by the Apothecary Pharmacy to purchase COVID test kits, over-the-counter medications and prescriptions.Ìý ÌýÌý
If you’re 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.Ìý
Review your health insurance policy to understand which providers and facilities are covered, so you can access care with minimal out-of-pocket costs.Ìý
ÌýÌýSeek care if neededÌý
If you’re unsure of what to do or have questions, call your primary care provider or Wardenburg Health Center on campus at 303-492-5101. You can also schedule a same-day call back with a nurse through your . Both of these options allow you talk with a nurse to discuss symptoms and treatment options, including whether you should take care of yourself at home or seek medical care.ÌýÌýÌýÌý
For other after-hours support, you can visit a local urgent care facility.ÌýÌýÌý
You should seek emergency medical care immediately if you have any of the following symptoms:ÌýÌýÌýÌýÌý
- Difficulty breathingÌýÌý
- Persistent pain or pressure in your chestÌýÌýÌýÌý
- Sudden confusionÌýÌýÌýÌý
- Inability to wake or stay awakeÌýÌýÌý
- Bluish lips, face or skinÌýÌýÌýÌýÌý
Call 911 or head to a local emergency room. You can also contact your medical provider if you are experiencing severe symptoms and aren’t sure if you need urgent support.ÌýÌýÌý