A rise in illness has been observed across the state of Kentucky to such a degree that many schools have canceled classes to control the spike in sickness among students. With students being in such a close environment, it is easy for illnesses to spread. School districts, including Somerset, Jackson Independent, Lee, Estill and Scott counties, canceled class on Feb. 16 to help students, teachers and even bus drivers stay healthy by giving them a four-day weekend going into President’s Day. According to health professionals, the illnesses that are affecting people the most right now are the flu, strep throat, RSV and COVID.
Asbury’s Center for Wholeness and Wellness has had an increase in flu numbers on campus – both Influenza A and B – with a reported 57 cases so far this semester. Flu A is typically more severe with a higher fever, but Flu B can be serious as well. Symptoms often start with a sore throat before progressing to congestion, fatigue, body and headaches, cough and fever.
“We have had a lot of sickness on campus this spring semester and would love to get the word out on how students can help prevent getting ill and what to do if they get sick,” says Heidi Sunny, Director of Student Health Services. “We are recommending that students quarantine for a minimum of three days from their start of symptoms, but some are needing that time to be extended a day or two for prolonged symptoms or fever.”
Should someone develop symptoms, it is encouraged that they wear a mask and make an appointment for viral testing. Asbury Health Services provides testing for the flu, strep throat, COVID and mono. Sunny explains that getting tested is important because “the only way to know for sure what type of virus or illness you have is to get tested. So many of the symptoms are the same that without testing, it is impossible to know what virus you have.” Students also have the option of visiting local care and urgent treatment centers. If needed, antiviral medications can be prescribed by a doctor in order to mitigate symptoms and shorten the duration of the illness.
According to Student Health Services, there are many steps students can take to help prevent the spread of the flu or other illnesses. It is encouraged that students wear a mask if they feel unwell or are experiencing any symptoms, and to continue wearing it until symptoms are gone. Most of the viruses mentioned are spread via droplets, and people can still sometimes be contagious even if symptoms are improving. Washing hands is important in preventing the spread of any sickness. It is recommended to wash hands or use hand sanitizer not only after coughing and sneezing but also when touching things like public doorknobs, grocery carts, elevator buttons or gas station pumps. Upon recovering from an illness, it is recommended to clean high touch surfaces, wash sheets and change toothbrushes to help prevent any further spread.