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DU Your Part to Stop the Spread

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Author(s)

Therese Mashak

Public Health Project Manager

Announcement  •
Campus Life  •

Dear DU Community,

Welcome back!We hope you enjoyed your 𲹰.During this time, many of youtraveled, visited with friends and family, andparticipated invarious celebrations, which may haveledto exposure to a variety of viruses.As we begin the quarter and cometogetherin enclosed spaces,it is easy for germs to spread. This time ofyear,we typically see an increase incases of flu, COVID,common colds, and norovirus.

Whilemedicinesmay mitigate symptomsfor some of theseillnesses,viruses like norovirusdo not respond tomedications and analgesics. Norovirus is a common illness thatspreadseasilythroughdirect contact with infected individuals as well as through contaminatedfood, water, and surfaces.Symptoms of norovirus, sometimes referred to as the “stomach flu” or a “stomach bug,”includenausea, vomiting,anddiarrheaso staying hydrated is very important.

Hereare somepreventionmethodsto helpstop the spread of viruses and reduce the chances of becoming ill.

  • Stay up to date on your COVID and flu vaccinations.
  • Wash your handscarefullywith soap andwaterespecially after using the bathroom,and always before eating, preparing, or handling food.Alcohol-basedhand sanitizer aloneis not sufficientto killall viruses, including norovirus.
  • Stay hydrated. If you experience symptoms of norovirus, takesmall frequent sips of water or other electrolyte-based fluids like Pedialyte or Gatorade.
  • Avoid contact with others when you are sick.Continue these precautions for 2-3 days after you are feeling betteras the virus is still around.
  • Wash contaminated laundry thoroughly on the longest wash cycle and then machine dry them.
  • Wash fruits andvegetables andcook foodthoroughly.
  • Clean anddisinfectcontaminated surfaces.Noroviruses are resistant to many commonly used disinfectants. IfNorovirus is suspected,(1/3 cup – 1.5 cupsof household bleach per gallon of water).

These simple steps can help you avoid getting sick and help prevent the spread of theseviruses.

For studentswithspecial circumstances that might require medical attention (dehydration, fever, severe abdominal pain, ongoing symptoms)please contact the Health and Counseling Center with any questions. You canleave asecure message viaor call 303.871.2205. Pleasecontactthe Health and Counseling Centerby phone rather than coming in person if you are experiencing symptoms.

Employeesrequiring medical attention, please contact your healthcare provider.

Remember, the best wayto help preventnorovirusand other communicable illnessesis to practice proper hand washing and general cleanliness.For more information, visit.


Sincerely,

Michael LaFarr
Assistant Vice Chancellor, Health &Wellness
DU Health & Counseling Center

Therese Mashak
Public Health Project Manager
Enterprise Risk Management