University News

Illness Prevention & Preparedness

February 7, 2020

Share |
Printer friendly version

MACOMB, IL -- As recent news stories have reported, cases of the Coronavirus, as well as Influenza A and B, are on the rise around the nation. Western Illinois University is following policy and guidelines set forth by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH), as well as the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). In addition, Beu Health Center is posting updated information as it becomes available at wiu.edu/beu, and information is being disseminated in the residence halls.

The IDPH is recommending that students and employees returning from China after Feb. 3 not attend school and/or work for 14 days. Students, faculty and staff who may be traveling abroad in the near future should keep in mind there may be restrictions in place that might ban re-entry into the United States. More information can be found at the CDC and the U.S. State Department .

According to Beu Chief of Staff Dr. Mike Waters, prevention is often the best medicine to avoid a virus. Viruses are spread mainly from person-to-person through coughing or sneezing. Tips to avoid the transmission any illness include covering a cough or sneeze with a tissue or sleeve; frequent handwashing; staying home when sick; and in the case of influenza prevention, a flu shot.

Seasonal flu symptoms develop quickly and include fever and a sore throat and/or coughing, body aches, chills, and headache. Reported Coronavirus symptoms are similar to the flu or respiratory illness, including fever, cough and shortness of breath. The symptoms of the common cold are generally much milder, develop more slowly and usually do not include a fever.

WIU-Macomb students who feel ill should contact Beu Health Center at (309) 298-1888 prior to coming to the health center. If an individual comes to the health center, Beu's healthcare providers will ask a series of questions as a precautionary measure. WIU-QC students and employees should contact their local health care provider.

For more information, contact Beu Health Center at (309) 298-1888. In addition, the IDPH has launched the Illinois Novel Coronavirus Hotline and email to answer questions. Individuals can dial (800) 889-3931 24 hours a day, seven days a week or email DPH.SICK@ILLINOIS.GOV to get answers and the latest information.

Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
Office of University Communications & Marketing