Dear Students,
I hope you have had a good start you your spring semester. Since this is the peak season for the spread of the flu and others respiratory illnesses, I wanted to pass along some information about the steps we as a college are taking and steps you all can take to stay healthy.
We have taken proactive measures to ensure the health of our campus in light of the emergence of the 2019-nCoV coronavirus. There are currently no reported cases of the virus in the state of Tennessee.
Health center staff is checking in with those presenting flu-like symptoms and is receiving updated communications from the CDC regarding the virus. We are also in contact with the Shelby County Health Department.
Although the CDC maintains the risk of the Wuhan coronavirus spreading in the U.S. is low and we do not expect the virus to reach our campus, we do encourage you all to adopt good health habits to prevent the spread of germs that can lead to many respiratory illnesses:
- Please cover your mouth with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.
- Wash your hands regularly with soap and water.
- If you are seriously ill, stay home or in your room as much as possible.
- Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
- Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
Should anyone feel that they may becoming sick, we encourage you to visit the student health center or your primary care doctor immediately. Our health services staff is here to help you.
In an effort to provide enhance holistic health services, we have also expanded our counseling services. Short-term individual counseling as well as seven counseling groups– Personal Growth, Recovering at Rhodes, Healthy Relationships, Healthy U: Coping Skills, Expressive Arts, Sexuality and Gender Identity Expression, and On Solid Ground: A Group for Survivors of Trauma––are available. Counseling center staff are also providing same-day appointments to address acute, short-term concerns. You can reach the counseling center by calling (901) 843-3128.
I also encourage those who are able to take advantage of physical activities at the BCLC, which can aid in managing stress and improving your overall health.
Please take care of yourself and our community by practicing healthy preventative measures and seeking out resources whenever necessary.
To schedule an appointment with the student health center, please call (901) 843-3895.
Dr. Darrell Ray
Interim Vice President for Student Life