College students should stop going to class and even miss examinations if they feel symptoms of the flu, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention officials told college administrators and students Thursday.
If an ill student lives close to home, he or she should strongly consider leaving campus — preferably by private car or taxi rather than public transportation — to stay with his or her parents until the student is well, according to the newly released guidelines, which coincide with the start of the academic year.
If students can’t return home, they should set up a “flu buddy scheme” with a friend who would be able to bring in meals to the sick student’s room, to avoid infecting others with the flu virus, the CDC said.
The CDC’s recommendations came a day after national and local public health officials said employers should brace for worker absences.
The CDC said colleges should consider providing temporary, alternate housing for ill students who cannot leave campus or do not have a private room. If close contact with others cannot be avoided, the ill student should be asked to wear a surgical mask when dealing with others.
Colleges also should consider altering policies on missed classes, exams and late assignments so students do not feel pressured to attend class or take exams while sick, the CDC said.
