By Joao Vitor Bonanoni/ Staff Writer

Student Health Center noticed an increasing number of students walking in and seeking assistance during the past weeks. With the change of weather and low temperatures, students have been seeking treatment at the nursing department with most having colds, sore throats, headaches, allergies, and runny nose symptoms. 

Casey Vogelsmeier, Campus Nurse, advises students to take the proper measures when facing these symptoms, with that reduce the spread of viruses on campus. 

“If you are sick, especially with a fever, try to limit your contact with others,” Vogelsmeier said. “Avoid sharing drinks with others. Practice good hand hygiene. Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet, adequate fluid intake and rest. Listen to your body”

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the yearly flu vaccine as the first and most crucial step in protecting against flu viruses. The institution also shares the following tips to prevent and stop viruses:

• Avoid close contact: avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.
• Stay home when you are sick.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing: Flu viruses spread mainly by droplets made when people with flu cough, sneeze or talk.
• Clean your hands: washing your hands often will help protect you from germs. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth: germs can be spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.

COVID and Flu vaccines are available at the Saline County Health Department and local pharmacies. Vaccine clinics hosted by the Saline County Health Department in the Malcom Gym are the 3rd Thursday of every month. 

The Nurse’s office is open Monday through Friday from 7:30 am to 4 pm. Appointments are not required but are preferred. The Nurse’s Office provides a variety of over-the-counter medications: Severe Cold Relief, Sinus decongestant, Benadryl, Tylenol, and Ibuprofen (all are free of charge). Antibiotic prescriptions can be issued by the Nurse Practitioner if necessary. 

For more information and to schedule an appointment contact the Nurse’s office at mvccampusnurse@moval.edu or at (660) 813-4012.