Dear Loggers,

As fall approaches, we are bracing for a seasonal increase in respiratory illnesses. Please review the following information in order to care for yourself and your community.

Be prepared
Please note that federal public health emergency funding ended in May 2023, and as a result, COVID-19 tests are no longer being distributed by the university. However, we will make surgical masks available for pickup at CHWS and Security Services.

To combat fall illnesses, we recommend students purchase the following items (available at most pharmacies/grocery stores):

  • a thermometer
  • COVID-19 tests
  • high quality masks (N95/KN95s)
  • over-the-counter medications

Should you test positive for COVID-19, please follow campus and CDC guidelines.

Reach Out
As a student, you can benefit from various health services offered by CHWS. These include access to over-the-counter medications that are available at the self-help station outside CHWS, a triage nurse, medical appointments, and symptom management guidance for respiratory symptoms. If you are experiencing symptoms related to COVID-19, flu, or any other illness, you can schedule an appointment with a provider for testing. To speak with the triage nurse or schedule an appointment, please call 253.879.1555.

Take precautions
Although rates of COVID-19, flu, and other infectious diseases fluctuate throughout the year, precautions to prevent disease transmission do not change. You can protect yourself and others by washing your hands, wearing a mask and staying home when you are sick, and informing close contacts so they may take necessary precautions.

Get vaccinated
Flu shots are now available at CHWS. Flu shots are offered on a walk-in or appointment basis.  The cost is $25, which will be billed to the student’s account. CHWS will also host a flu vaccine clinic on Oct. 5.

CHWS Walk-in Flu Shot Clinic (students only)
Thursday, October 5, 2023
11 a.m.–1 p.m.
CHWS (second floor of Wheelock Student Center, suite 216)
Cost: $25 billed to your student account

The updated COVID-19 booster and associated CDC recommendations on who is eligible are expected to be available in mid-September. If eligible, according to CDC recommendations, students are encouraged to schedule an appointment for a COVID-19 booster at a nearby pharmacy.

If you have questions about any of this information, you are encouraged to contact CHWS at chws@pugetsound.edu or 253.879.1555 or refer to the CHWS website.

Best wishes,

Libby Baldwin, ARNP | Medical Director, Counseling, Health, & Wellness Services