A MESSAGE FROM KATHRYN HUTCHINSON, PH.D., VICE PRESIDENT FOR
STUDENT AFFAIRS
January 11, 2013
Dear Student,
As you are aware, health officials are predicting an upswing in
the number of flu cases this winter, and the NYC Department of
Health and Mental Hygiene has recently issued a flu advisory. As
the Spring 2013 semester is approaching, we want you to be prepared
so you can minimize your risk of getting the flu or other
illnesses. Here are steps you can take to avoid getting sick:
- The most important action you can take is washing your hands
with soap and water frequently. If in transit, carry hand sanitizer
with you. Do not share toiletries, drinking glasses or any personal
items with others. Always cough into a tissue and throw it away
immediately; then wash your hands.
- Come to campus prepared! If you are a resident student, bring
basic self-care supplies including a thermometer, lots of hand
soap, cleaning supplies to wipe down desks, sinks, computer
keyboards, etc. In addition, carry your health insurance card and
know how to use it in the event you need medical attention.
- Visit the Student Health
Services website frequently for information, including tips on
how you can
stay healthy.
- If you haven’t already done so, please speak with your family
and health care provider about getting a flu shot before returning
to classes and campus. Flu vaccines:
- are covered under most insurance plans;
- can be administered at local pharmacies;
- are offered by state health departments in all states,
sometimes free or low cost.
Seasonal flu is spread through respiratory droplets that are
released when a person with the flu coughs or sneezes. Others can
become infected if they are in close proximity or come in contact
with the droplets. This contact usually occurs if the droplets have
contact with another person or if they touch a surface where the
droplet is, such as a counter top, dresser, keyboard or phone.
Therefore, if you are experiencing
flu-like symptoms, it is recommended that you
stay home or with family members off-campus until you are feeling
better and are no longer contagious.
As you return for the Spring 2013 semester, please stop by
Student Health Services on the Queens or Staten Island campuses to
pick up a wellness packet, including “Tips and Tools For Staying
Healthy”, and a NexTemp personal reusable thermometer.
Have a healthy and successful semester!