How to stay healthy on campus during the pandemic

The Student Health Services Center has offered advice about how to stay healthy on campus during the fall semester.

Dr. Brenda Caudill, from the Student Health Services Center, encouraged that students wear their masks when around other students as well as when inside buildings on campus.

“First and foremost is to wear the facial covering. When you're inside around others and in any campus building wear that mask,” Dr. Caudill said.

She also explained that students should stay home if they feel sick.

“Stay home or stay in when you don’t feel well. Even if it’s just mild symptoms it’s better to not expose anyone else,” Dr. Caudill said. 

For students who forget their masks or do not have one, one will be provided to them if they try to enter an EKU building. EKU Housing also provided residential students with a reusable mask during move-in.

“Every building will have a greeter. If students do not have a mask and they try to enter a building they will be provided with one,” Dr. Caudill said. 

The Student Health Services Center will still provide the same services, however, students will now have to schedule an appointment before being seen.

“We are going to be offering the same services. We are handling all appointments differently. Visits will be by appointment only. The front door will remain locked. We do COVID screening questions with you before we let you enter the building,” Dr. Caudill said.

Dr. Caudill mentioned the flu vaccine would be available around September which is another way to stay healthy on campus.

Dr. Caudill said that their hours will remain the same as previous semesters, 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Students will be allowed to take the COVID-19 test only if they are showing symptoms. However, there are multiple sites in Richmond that can administer the test for asymptomatic people.

“There are other Richmond sites for asymptomatic testing. If we see you for symptoms and it’s indicated to test then we will. So we will have capability,” Dr. Caudill said.

The Center for Disease Control recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory viruses like COVID-19, including:

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol if soap and water are not available.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

• Stay home when you are sick.

• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.

• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.