Recommended Strategies Under Current Flu Conditions (Similar Severity as in Spring 2009)

  • Encourage "self isolation" of residential students and staff members who are sick with the flu, including staying out of class and limiting contact with others, except to seek medical care. Encourage sick students to return home when possible.
  • Consider reviewing absentee and missed-exam policies for students and staff to avoid the risk of sick people coming to class.
  • For those who can't leave campus and do not have private rooms, schools might consider establishing temporary alternate housing for students sick with the flu. 
  • All students and staff considered most vulnerable to complications from the flu should seek medical treatment at once if they think they have flu symptoms. 
  • Create online learning scenarios to help students and staff maintain self-isolation. 
  • Consider a vaccination clinic on campus.
  • Encourage good prevention techniques campus wide. 
  • Establish regular cleaning schedules for high-touch community surfaces, like elevators and keyboards, and provide disposable wipes near these locations. 
  • Consider special communication or plans to help students and staff with disabilities.
  • Review policies for study abroad programs, including access to healthcare services and communication.
  • Review policies for teams and other close-quartered groups.