COVID-19 testing and flu prevention
October 22, 2020
Dear UMD Community,
As we are in the middle of the fall semester, I wanted to provide a health update. COVID-19 continues to be a significant public health issue and the cold and flu season has just begun. I appreciate your commitment to following 4 Maryland guidance, as it is making a difference for our campus community.
COVID-19 testing continues to be an important tool we use to mitigate the spread of coronavirus. Testing continues to be available on campus twice a week from now until Thanksgiving break; post-break testing information is forthcoming. As the fall temperatures set in, testing has moved into the Grand Ballroom in Stamp with all essential safety measures in place. Sign up for October and November testing now. As always, symptomatic people and anyone who has come into close contact with a COVID-positive individual can receive testing at the University Health Center, as needed.
As a reminder, any student, staff or faculty member who has significant in-person, on-campus interaction with others must get tested once a month. You must attest to your test results via return.umd.edu - click on “Confirm Test Results.”
Flu Season
In addition to COVID-19, seasonal influenza activity in the United States is beginning. Some of the symptoms of the flu and COVID-19 are similar and include:
- Fever or feeling feverish/chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Fatigue (tiredness)
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle pain or body aches
- Headache
The best way to differentiate between influenza and COVID-19 is by performing a diagnostic test for both.
Prevention Measures
4 Maryland guidance applies to both flu and COVID-19 prevention. In addition, we recommend you follow the CDC’s Flu Preventive Steps. Take time to get a flu vaccine now. If you have underlying health conditions or take medications that suppress your immune system, it is especially important to get your yearly flu shot to prevent complications. It takes about two weeks after receiving the flu vaccine for it to become effective. The flu shot is the best way to protect yourself from getting the flu. Schedule an appointment for a flu shot at myuhc.umd.edu or call 301.314.8180.
If you are sick with flu symptoms, the CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care. For more information about the seasonal flu, please visit the CDC’s website. As always, please continue to follow 4 Maryland guidance.
We are here to support you.
Stay well, Terps,
Sacared Bodison, M.D.
Interim Director
University Health Center
