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The message is being sent to all Duke undergraduate, graduate, and professional students.

Dear Duke Students, 
 
As our new academic year begins, I want to take this opportunity to extend a warm welcome to all of you. Our team in Student Health is looking forward to supporting you this year and we have many well-being resources on campus to help you make the most of your time at Duke. I also want to share some important information and reminders about staying healthy this year.   
 
Each year, we bring thousands of students together from around the world to live and learn in close proximity. As the semester gets underway, it’s typical that we see an increase in the number of common colds and other general illnesses among students. This phenomenon occurs because our immune systems are challenged with and adapting to circulating germs that we have not been exposed to previously in our home environments. Both now, and as we head into the cold and flu season of the colder months, we encourage all of our students to take steps to stay well and prevent the spread of illness. 
 
Be sure to read the all-campus message sent today regarding West Nile virus: Earlier today, my colleagues in Employee Health and I shared an important update regarding the presence of West Nile virus in the Durham area. We encourage you to review that message for more details regarding this ongoing concern and the personal protection steps you can take to reduce the chance of mosquito bites, including use of EPA-registered insect repellents and wearing protective clothing. Insect repellents are available for students in the Duke Campus Center Pharmacy. Again, as we shared in that message, most people who contract the virus never experience symptoms; about 1 in 5 develop flu-like symptoms, and fewer than 1 in 100 require hospital treatment, however we recommend you take steps to reduce mosquito bites.  
 
Take Steps to Stay Healthy 
Overall, taking time for self-care and prioritizing your own well-being is a key part of achieving the academic goals and endeavors that are the reason you came to Duke. Here are a few practical tips to help you start the year on a strong note: 
  • Prioritize sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night.  Rest is critical for concentration, memory, and managing stress. 
  • Use good prevention habits:  Regularly wash your hands with soap and warm water;  avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth with unwashed hands; avoid sharing food, cups, or utensils; and stay home when feeling unwell.  
  • Stay active:  Regular activity, even a short walk, can boost your mood and energy.
  • Get your flu shot: Flu shots are available on campus each year, starting in late September. 
  • Take mindful breaks: Use techniques like deep breathing or meditation to stay grounded during high-pressure moments.   
  • Connect with others: Find time to enjoy social connections—whether it’s a meal with friends, attending events, joining a student organization, or making time to connect with those close to you. 
Utilize Student Well Being Resources 
We have a range of health and well-being focused resources here at Duke to support you. At Student Health, our team specializes in providing evidence-based, patient-centered healthcare to our student community in a professional and compassionate manner. We provide a wide range of healthcare services for all Duke students, many of which are covered by the student health fee. We also can facilitate referrals to specialists or other healthcare providers, when needed. 
 
We are located on the 2nd floor of the Wellness Center and are open Monday - Friday, 8am - 4:30pm, Thursday 9am - 4:30pm; we are closed from 12-12:30 each day.  If you would like to make an appointment call (919) 681-9355. Online scheduling is available for non-same day medical provider appointments via the My Duke Health portal. 
 
Beyond Student Health, there are several other well-being services at Duke to support you and I recommend you explore all they have to offer:   
  • DukeReach: DukeReach will help you identify support services from among the variety of resources across campus or in your local community. 
  • DukeLine – Whether you need someone to listen or want help exploring your options for additional support, text (984) 230-4888. To learn more about what DukeLine can assist with, click here. 
  • Duke Recreation & Physical Education: A wide range of activities, services, and support for students to stay active are available through Duke Recreation & Physical Activity, including intramural sports, fitness classes, sports clubs, outdoor adventures, and recreation facilities.   
 
I wish you a wonderful, healthy, and enriching year ahead. 
 
Sincerely, 
 
Hunter Spotts, M.D. 
Director, Student Health
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