As the campus community travels for the holidays and fall and winter break, WVU Student Health Services is providing reminders for students, faculty and staff to keep themselves and their loved ones healthy as they gather for celebrations.
COVID-19, influenza and respiratory syncytial virus or RSV are common, especially during the fall and winter seasons. The best way to prevent severe illness caused by these viruses is to get vaccinated. Student Health Services located on the Evansdale Campus and WVU Medicine Urgent Care offer flu and COVID-19 vaccinations. Throughout the community, many primary care providers, local pharmacies and community clinics also offer walk-in and appointment-based vaccination opportunities.
Full protection after vaccination can take two weeks. Health experts recommend vaccination in early fall for protection during peak season.
Other preventative measures for respiratory illness include:
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for 20 seconds or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer. Make sure to clean between your fingers and around your wrists.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
- Cover coughs and sneezes with a tissue, or the bend of your elbow, not your hands. Use the nearest waste receptacle to dispose of the tissue after use.
- Avoid contact with individuals who are sick, when possible.
Individuals should continuously monitor for symptoms of COVID-19 and influenza which usually mimic the common cold, and visit a healthcare provider, if necessary.