Influenza
Most college campuses experience increased rates of influenza transmission compared to the general population. The common flu symptoms are fever or feeling feverish/chills, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle or body aches, headaches, fatigue (tiredness), and some people may have vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children than adults.
It is important to get tested if you are experiencing flu-like symptoms. You can get tested for flu and other common respiratory viruses at Health Services under Loyola. To prevent a flu infection, there are several important steps to take. It is important to practice good hand hygiene during flu season, and receive your annual flu vaccine. Additionally, if you or people around you are sick, we encourage masking to avoid infecting others.
RSV
Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) case levels have increased in the greater Worcester community. RSV can be asymptomatic or can cause mild, cold-like symptoms for your age group, but for infants, young children, older adults, and those with chronic health conditions and weakened immune systems, the illness can cause more serious symptoms. Along with RSV, we are also approaching flu season and COVID-19 infections are continuing to occur. Masking, hand hygiene, and vaccination are all proven mitigation factors for preventing respiratory illness.