Health Services Update

As the weather gets colder and the days shorter, it is important to remember to care for yourself. Without taking care of your health and creating healthy habits, you will be more prone to getting ill and missing out on classes and important events. Some simple self care tips are to make sure that you get plenty of sleep at night, go for a walk, eat healthy meals, and drink plenty of water throughout the day.  

The Wellness Center is available to all students as a resource on campus for self care. You are able to meet with peer educators or obtain supplies that will aid in your self care. Check out the website for more information https://wp.stolaf.edu/wellness/

It is that time of year again…influenza season. Symptoms of influenza include fever, dry cough, sore throat, headache, extreme fatigue, and body aches. These symptoms usually start suddenly and will prevent you from going to class and participating in activities for several days. 

There are easy ways to lessen your chance of getting influenza. The number one protection is through yearly vaccination. Influenza is spread by respiratory droplets, so make sure you cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze, wash your hands frequently, and wear a mask if you are not feeling well. We also recommend carrying hand sanitizer with you and using it frequently to stop the spread of germs around campus.

Did you know…last week we administered approximately 1,200 flu shots and 1,400 COVID boosters! Thank you to everyone who participated in this 2-day vaccine clinic.

COVID-19 Updates

New COVID-19 cases, week of 10/9/22-10/15/22: 7

• Need more tests? You can order free at home tests from the Minnesota Department of Health: When you enter your address, you will need to put in your room number  Order Your Free At-Home Rapid Tests through the State of Minnesota (mn.gov)
• Use our COVID-19 reporting form to report symptoms, positive tests, or vaccination/booster updates.
• When to test: If you feel ill with COVID like symptoms, take a COVID test (day 1 – 24 hours post onset of symptoms). If the test is negative, repeat the test 48 hours later (day 3).  If you test negative and are still concerned you may have COVID-19, you may choose to test again 48 hours after the second test (day 5).
• Exposed to COVID-19: Start wearing a mask right away and test five full days (day 5) after the last time you were in close contact with a person with COVID-19. Your last day of contact is day zero. If your test is negative on day 5, repeat another test 24 to 48 hours later (on day 6 or 7) and continue to wear a mask for 10 full days.
• Still have questions about how and when to use a self test? Check out this video from the CDC When to use a self test