Fall and winter bring an uptick in seasonal illnesses as the University community returns to campus and temperatures get cooler. The information below can help you and your community stay healthy during periods of increased activity for seasonal illnesses, including COVID-19, influenza, pertussis (whooping cough), RSV, strep, and others.
Respiratory Hygiene Feeling Sick?VaccinesResources
Practice Good Respiratory Hygiene
- Wash your hands
- Stay home if you’re sick. For information on academic support with illness, please see the University’s policy on make up work for legitimate absences.
- Cover your cough. Cough into your elbow, or use a tissue or mask to prevent the spread of respiratory droplets from coughs and sneezes
- Get plenty of rest
- Stay hydrated. Drink lots of water, and/or low-sugar, non-caffeinated, non-alcoholic beverages
Masks on campus
University of Minnesota faculty, staff, students, and visitors (including contractors, service providers, vendors, and suppliers) are required to wear a mask only in the following locations:
- Posted healthcare settings
- In settings where Personal Protective Equipment is required
Anyone may choose to wear a mask in settings where it is not required. The University expects all community members to respect those who choose to wear a mask, as well as those who choose not to wear one.
Faculty and staff may order masks from U Market Services through their departments. We are continuing the Mask Support Program for anyone with special healthcare concerns and may benefit from specialized consultation. You may find information on mask fit and material from Health and Safety and Risk Management (HSRM).
Feeling Sick?
Pertussis (whooping cough)
Pertussis is highly contagious, often starting with cold-like symptoms such as a runny nose, low-grade fever, and mild cough, which progresses to a severe cough.
The Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis) vaccine is recommended for everyone 10 years and older, with boosters every 10 years. Vaccines, testing, and treatment are available through UMD Health Services or your primary care provider.
If you have a cough lasting more than 7 days, the Minnesota Department of Health advises seeing a healthcare provider.
Get Tested
- If you have symptoms and need a test for COVID-19, influenza, pertussis, RSV, strep or other illness, University students can visit UMD's Health Services. Staff and faculty can make an appointment for testing by calling or walking in at their preferred urgent care clinic or primary care provider. If you are experiencing symptoms and need a COVID-19 test, you can find testing locations in the community and other resources across Minnesota.
- At-home tests are available for purchase at most pharmacies and may be covered by your insurance.
- Note: Positive COVID tests do not need to be reported to MDH or your health provider. If you test positive for COVID 19, follow these guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Get Treated
- If you're a student, you can visit UMD's Health Services or your primary care provider if you’re feeling sick and wondering about treatment, or call (218) 726-8155 to talk to a nurse.
- Additionally, remember to follow these guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Vaccines
For information about vaccines for COVID-19, flu, and other seasonal illnesses, visit:
- UMD's Health Services (students only)
- Essentia Health
- Aspirus St. Luke’s
- St. Louis County Public Health
- Area pharmacies including:
Additional information is available at UMD's Health Services.
Information on staying up to date on COVID vaccines can be found on the MN Department of Health website.
Additional Resources
Additional information regarding vaccinations can be reviewed at the following locations: