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Communicable Diseases

COVID-19

UM-Flint Environment, Health & Safety (EHS) continues to work in partnership with the Genesee County Health Department (GCHD) as well as U-M Ann Arbor EHS, University Health Services (UHS), Michigan Medicine among others to stay informed and provide relevant public health guidance to our campus community.

As always, if you feel sick, stay home, avoid others, wear a mask around others and seek testing  The UM Flint COVID-19 web site remains our campus resource for COVID-19 guidance for those wanting to prevent illness as well as those who have tested positive for COVID-19, have been exposed to a confirmed case of COVIF-19 or experiencing COVID-19 symptoms. Additionally, check out Genesee County Health Department , our State of Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for updated public health related information related to COVID-19.

If you have questions or concerns, please contact EHS at 810-766-6763 or at [email protected]

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV)

RSV is a common respiratory virus that usually causes mild, cold-like symptoms, such as: runny nose, coughing, sneezing, wheezing, and fever. Most people recover in a week or two, but RSV can be serious, especially for infants and older adults. The illness can look different in very young infants, with the only symptoms being irritability, decreased activity, and difficulty breathing.

RSV Resources

Norovirus

Noroviruses are a group of viruses that cause gastroenteritis (GAS-tro-en-ter-Itis) or digestive tract illnesses in people. Norovirus is sometimes incorrectly called the “stomach flu” or “stomach bug”. However, norovirus is not related to the respiratory flu, which is caused by influenza virus. The most common symptoms are diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and stomach pain. The illness is usually brief, with symptoms lasting only 1 to 2 days.

Norovirus Resources

Influenza

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Influenza (the flu) is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses. It can cause mild to severe illness, and at times in severe cases can lead to death. Some people, such as older people, young children, and people with certain health conditions, are at high risk for serious flu complications. The best way to prevent the flu is by getting vaccinated each year. If you suspect that you have the flu, stay home, avoid being around others and spreading the virus, and if needed, seek medical advice from your medical provider.

Influenza Resources
Links to county, state and national health agencies’ with useful information about influenza and staying healthy

Vaccinations

Contact your healthcare provider, your local county health department, review the CDC vaccination and immunization website or visit a nearby pharmacy to get further information on a variety of vaccinations.

Wastewater Surveillance for Disease

Wastewater surveillance is an important tool used in public health to track the spread of diseases in communities. Data can help local agencies identify trends of outbreak early and direct any prevention efforts where they are most needed. The CDC and State of Michigan have coordinated projects to conduct surveillance for SARS-CoV-2 (the virus that causes COVID-19) shed into Michigan public sewer systems.

Learn More:

Tips for Preventing Infectious Diseases

  1. Stay home if you’re sick.
  2. Wash your hands frequently with soap and water. When unavailable, use hand sanitizer with at least 70% alcohol.
  3. Clean and sanitize high touch areas in your home, study areas, and workplace often.
  4. Get vaccinated and stay current on recommended boosters.
  5. Keep your immune system strong by eating healthy, exercising, and getting enough sleep.
  6. Remember that masks remain an effective measure for enhanced personal protection against viruses.
  7. Stay informed on updated best practices for preventing illness from reputable resources. These include: Genesee County or your local health department, the Michigan Department of Health & Human Services (MDHHS), and Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).