THE UNIVERSITY has advised Thomasians to observe precaution against influenza and influenza-like illnesses, following a recent spike in cases on campus.
In a memorandum dated Oct. 8, Secretary General Fr. Louie Coronel O.P. released an advisory from the Health Service containing measures against “contagious viral infection of the nose, throat, and lungs caused by influenza viruses.”
It said influenza-like illnesses are similar to influenza but “caused by other pathogens, such as rhinovirus (common cold), respiratory syncytial virus, COVID-19, and other respiratory viruses and bacteria.”
The memorandum outlined common symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headache, body pains, fatigue, and chills.
Thomasians were encouraged to observe the following measures to help curb the spread of the virus:
- Wear a face mask
- Practice good hygiene
- Wash hands frequently
- Clean and disinfect
- Get vaccinated
- Strengthen immune system
- Seek medical consultation
Thomasians may seek online consultation Monday to Saturday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. through ThOMedSS, or by visiting the UST Health Services on the same days from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Health break in JHS
The UST Junior High School implemented an “academic health break” from Oct. 7 to Oct. 9, citing the “rising case of students and teachers with flu or flu-like symptoms.”
“Classes on these days will be purely in enriched virtual modality (asynchronous learning) for the USTJHS community to rest, recharge, and recover their physical and mental well-being,” a memorandum from the Office of the Principal read.
While no online classes were to be conducted during the break, online learning instructional materials and activities would be posted on the learning management site.
Submission of performance tasks, learning activities, and other graded outputs were put on hold to “lessen the students’ workload.”
“Amidst uncertainties, may we remain focused, creative and flexible in addressing challenges as we continue to provide services to our stakeholders,” the memorandum read.
