With the sudden rise in COVID-19 cases and schools across the US getting back into the swing of things, some concerns arise.

“How can I protect myself when I’m around too many new people at school? How do I know if I have COVID-19 vs. the common cold everyone gets at the beginning of the year?” These questions you might ask yourself are both valid concerns.

For MSSU students, the biggest on-campus resource for any health concern would be the Wilcoxon Health Center located inside of Billingsly Student Center. 

The Health Center can help you with an array of issues such as testing for Tuberculosis, STI’s, and care for acute illnesses, as well as providing services regarding women’s health, physicals, and even vaccines. Concerning COVID-19, the Health Center extensively follows the CDC guidelines.

According to Wilcoxon, “nationally, we have seen a little bit of an uptick.” This is because COVID-19 hospitalizations have increased due to a new variant, Pirola. 

For MSSU students, if you have symptoms, you can stop by the Health Center to pick up a free at-home covid test. If positive or with symptoms, the CDC recommends you isolate for five full days and then mask up for days 6-10. If you come in contact with someone with COVID-19, yet have no symptoms, please wear a mask. 

Some recommendations to decrease your chance of getting COVID-19 include washing your hands, staying up-to-date on vaccinations, and keeping your distance when you feel sick.

For more information on how to get vaccinated or to get a booster, you can visit your local Walgreens, CVS, or your healthcare provider, including Wilcoxon Health Center.