Prevent respiratory illness 

These days, it can feel confusing and overwhelming to keep up with changes in health recommendations. But when it comes to staying healthy from seasonal respiratory illness, the science is clear and well-established:

  • Get vaccinated.
  • Wash your hands.
  • Stay home if you’re sick

Follow these guidelines to avoid respiratory illness including COVID, Influenza, RSV and more this year.

CDC Poster describing the respiratory virus guidance snapshot. Core prevention strategies: Immunizations, Hygeine, Steps for Cleaner Air, Treatment, and Stay Home and Prevent the Spead. Additional strategies: masks, distancing and tests. Stay home and away from other until, for 24 hours both: your symptoms are getting better plus you are fever-free without meds. Then take added precaution for the next 5 days. Layering prevention strategies can be especially helpful when: respiratory viruses are causing alot

Enhance your immune system

Get Vaccinated, Be Protected

Staying up-to-date on vaccinations is an important step to staying healthy though check with your primary healthcare professional to learn what’s right for you. 

Crookston has availability for vaccines at area clinics and pharmacies.

  • Hugo's pharmacy: (218) 281-3174
  • Thrifty White pharmacy: (218) 281-2540
  • Walmart pharmacy: (218) 281-6170
  • Altru Clinic: (218) 281-9100
  • RiverView Clinic: (218) 281-9200

Flu and COVID-19: 

  • The influenza vaccine is recommended for all people ages 6 months and older. 
    The Minnesota Department of Health supports the COVID-19 vaccine recommendations from leading science and medicine associations, including the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) and American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). These associations recommend that all people over 6 months old should be able to receive the COVID-19 vaccine without additional barriers. There is a strong recommendation for children under 2 years, pregnant women, children and adults with high-risk conditions, and adults age 65 and older to get vaccinated.
  • Measles: Measles is a highly contagious disease, but full vaccination is 97% effective at prevention.
  • Pertussis: Also known as whooping cough, pertussis is a very contagious disease that can start mild and progress to a severe cough and complications for people with certain medical conditions. Pertussis cases are much higher than usual in Minnesota this year.
  • Other important vaccines: Depending on your age and health, you may be a candidate to receive the RSV and the pneumococcal (pneumonia) vaccines.

In addition, follow these six healthy habits from the CDC to help improve your immunity.

Wash your hands

Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly for 20 seconds or more with soap and warm water. If you don’t have access to those, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

What to do if you’re sick

Get tested  

If you have symptoms and need a test for COVID-19, influenza, RSV, strep or other illness, University students, staff, and faculty can make an appointment for testing by calling or walking in at one of the local clinics such as Altru Clinic or RiverView Health.

Prevent the spread 

  • Wash hands
  • Stay home if you can, get plenty of rest, and see the excused absence policy for students or employees.
  • Stay hydrated and avoid drinks with sugar, caffeine, or alcohol.
  • Cover your coughs and sneezes. Wearing a well-fitting, multi-layered mask is effective.
  • Follow the CDC’s guidance for more information on preventing the spread of all respiratory illnesses.

Wearing a face mask

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:

  • In posted healthcare settings
  • In settings where Personal Protective Equipment is required due to environmental or hazardous material conditions

Everyone may wear a mask in settings that do not require them if they choose. 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.

If you have specific masking concerns, please contact [email protected].

High-quality masks are available free of charge for students to pick up at all University residence halls/apartments.

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 who may benefit from specialized consultation.

You may find information on mask fit and material from Health and Safety and Risk Management (HSRM).

Questions?

Contact Nan Widseth, UMN Crookston Nurse