According to NCDHHS.gov, COVID cases are on the rise once again. It is recommended that if students are feeling unwell, it's important to get tested for COVID-19. Dr. Mary Johnson, Director of Health Services stated that, “The CDC recommends waiting at least 48 hours between tests. Individuals who get sick during colder months with a virus, such as [Respiratory Syncytial Virus] RSV, are usually contagious for 3 to 8 days and may become contagious a day or two before they start showing signs of illness.” If students test positive, it is necessary to seek immediate treatment. Even if symptoms seem minor, such as a runny nose or a scratchy throat, taking a COVID-19 test is the best course of action.
Starting from September 12th, everyone aged 6 months and older ehas been eligible for the fall vaccination, including their flu shot. According to NCDHHS.gov, this new vaccination is specifically designed to match the ever-changing virus, offering protection against severe illnesses and hospitalization. In addition to COVID-19, two other viruses are also spreading, namely, the flu and RSV. Much like COVID, these viruses cause respiratory infections that can escalate into severe illnesses. While they are similar, there are significant symptoms that can help identify your diagnosis. Along with a COVID vaccination, consider having an RSV and flu vaccination as well.
The health center provided some insight into RSV and how concerned students should be regarding its spread. “Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms. However, it can be dangerous for babies, toddlers, and older adults. RSV season starts in the fall and peaks in the winter, overlapping with many other viruses.” This year, it overlaps with several strains of influenza and COVID. “Most adults commonly refer to RSV as the 'common cold.' Rapid antigen RSV testing is only sensitive in very young children. If a young child or older adult is thought to have a severe case of RSV, an rRT-PCR test can be run.”
The health center is taking significant measures to protect its students and staff from these three viruses. According to Dr. Mary Johnson, the health and wellness center is “anticipating viral infections to increase as the weather changes.” The director of health services also emphasized the importance of “wearing a high-quality, well-fitted mask when around others” and “cleaning frequently touched surfaces such as doorknobs and mobile devices.”
It can be challenging to avoid these viruses while living in close proximity to others in The Oaks and other residence halls. If students do become sick, the health and wellness center recommends having a plan in place, such as knowing where to isolate, reviewing the flu buddy program information, understanding how to contact professors, and having COVID test kits available. The health center recommends that students return home while recovering to prevent the spread and facilitate a quick recovery. If students need COVID testing kits, the health center has them on hand, and students can also have them sent for free through https://www.covid.gov/tests. Several local and upcoming influenza and COVID vaccination clinics are scheduled as well.
Written by: Miriya Carson, Contributing Writer
Photo by Grayson Morris