Cold & Flu Season Resources and Tips

January 3, 2019 by rmsmith5

Have you ever gotten a call from your student asking how to cure a common cold? Students can often become sick during the winter season and aren’t always sure where to go or how to take care of themselves. There are several resources available to students on campus to help them stay healthy, or get help when they feel ill.

Flu Vaccines Available

It’s not too late for your student to get a FREE flu vaccine from University Health Services. They can get their vaccine during walk-in immunization hours or immediately following a scheduled medical visit. For more information on the flu vaccine and who should get vaccinated, view the CDC flu prevention information.

Tips for Staying Well

Other than getting a flu vaccine, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) also recommend several other steps that individuals can take to avoid becoming ill:

Avoid close contact with friends, roommates or others who may be sick.
Cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze.
Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand rub if soap and water are not available.
Avoid touching or rubbing your eyes and nose.
Clean and disinfect surfaces that may be contaminated with germs like the flu.

If Your Student Gets Sick

They should limit contact with others as much as possible.

If they are experiencing flu-like symptoms, the CDC recommends staying home for at least 24 hours after their fever has gone away. Note: All students should check their syllabus for their professor’s attendance policy and make sure to notify professors of absence, if necessary. Some professors may require medical documentation from Health Services or another medical provider.
Students may go to University Health Services where they can see a healthcare provider. In some cases, providers may prescribe antiviral medications that can help alleviate symptoms. Same day appointments are available for students who are sick. Students must call to schedule a same-day appointment.
Students may schedule an appointment by calling VCU Student Health directly at (804) 828-8828 for the Monroe Park Campus and (804) 828-9220 for the VCU Medical Center Campus Clinic.

Please share these guides with your student detailing the symptoms and treatments for the common cold and the flu.