What is UNT doing to help students avoid the flu?
The health, welfare and safety of our students is paramount and the university continues efforts to help the UNT community avoid getting the flu. The university will update this web site as conditions warrant. You are encouraged to check the web site regularly.
UNT also is taking steps to educate members of its community about prevention, the symptoms of the flu, and what to do if one becomes sick.
UNT's Student Health and Wellness Center health care professionals are available to examine any students who are symptomatic.
UNT's Health Emergency Preparedness Team has adopted guidance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention specific for institutions of higher education and consults regularly with the Denton County Health Department to coordinate flu preparedness and response.
What should I do if I get the flu?
You should contact the UNT Student Health and Wellness Center or your personal health care provider for advice.
If you have been diagnosed with influenza like illness, you may be asked to isolate yourself from other students until you have been free of fever for 24 hours.
If possible, you should go home to avoid other students. If you live in a residence hall and are sick, you may want to return home until you are well. Contact your RA or hall director for assistance. If you live in off-campus housing, you should remain in your room until you have been free of fever for 24 hours. Inform your roommate(s) of your diagnosis.
What if I get the flu and miss class, who should I call?
You should first call the faculty member who teaches your class. If you are unable to reach your faculty member, you should contact the department chair in that academic area. Names of department chairs can be found on the departmental web site.
What should I do if I am pregnant or have compromised health?
UNT recommends you consult with your physician. You may also discuss class attendance with your professor. If your health care provider advises you against coming to UNT's campus, you should visit with your faculty members to make alternative arrangements for completing your semester. If you are unable to reach faculty members, you should contact the department chair in that academic area. Names of department chairs can be found on the departmental web site.
What can I do to avoid the flu?
- Avoid close contact with people who appear to be sick or are known to be sick.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you sneeze or cough and throw the tissue in the trash. If no tissue is available, cover your mouth and nose with the crook of your arm.
- Wash your hands thoroughly often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers work effectively as a temporary measure.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth to reduce the spread of germs.
- Practice healthy behaviors, such as getting enough sleep, drinking plenty of fluids and eating a nutritious diet.
- If you get sick with influenza, the CDC recommends that you stay home and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
Can I get a flu shot on campus?
A limited number of seasonal flu vaccines are available to students through the Student Health and Wellness Center. Students, faculty and staff are encouraged to get a seasonal flu shot this fall.
Do I need a separate vaccination against H1N1?
Yes, the H1N1 vaccine will be separate from the seasonal flu vaccine. It is anticipated that a H1N1 vaccine will be available later this fall. The Center for Disease Control has recommended priority groups that would receive the H1N1 vaccine first.
What should I do if I suspect someone is ill with the flu?
Urge them to contact either the UNT Student Health and Wellness Center or their physician for diagnosis and care.
Are there any supplies students should have on hand if they experience flu-like symptoms?
Tylenol or Ibuprophen, tissues, anti-bacterial hand soap, alcohol-based hand sanitizer and a thermometer are good to have on hand.
If I become sick and live in a residence hall, how will I get my meals if am not supposed to leave my room?
The student should notify the residence assistant or your dorm director. Arrangements can be made for meals to be delivered to students who are isolated.
