Tips on Staying Healthy | Student Health Services | SIU

Tips on staying healthy as we start the new academic year.

Dear fellow Salukis,

The following message is being sent to students to provide current, accurate information and avoid confusion. We thought you would also find it helpful.

Welcome to Carbondale, all new and returning Salukis! We hope that you are able to fully enjoy your time and experiences here at Southern Illinois University Carbondale. Here are some tips to help you to safely engage in activities on campus, in Carbondale and all over the Southern Illinois region. 

Be aware of the weather and take precautions to prevent heat related illnesses:

• Try not to be too active when there is extreme heat or humidity.
• Take frequent breaks when exercising or working outdoors.
• Drink plenty of fluids, such as water or sports drinks, to help keep you hydrated.
• Sodas, juices and energy drinks are not beneficial.
• Wear loose, lightweight clothing and don’t wear too many layers.
• DO NOT sit in a hot car for extended periods of time.

Pay attention to your health:

• If you are not feeling well, stay home!
• You can recover from COVID, flu or other illness in your own room or go home.
• If you need to miss class or work, it is your responsibility to notify your professors or employers. A student may get a letter from the Student Health Center if they are seen and it is deemed appropriate for their condition.
• Wash your hands.
• Avoid crowds or crowded areas, if possible.
• Wear a mask to prevent getting sick or spreading illness, if you’re not feeling well.

Know your resources:

• Seek medical care, if you are not feeling well.
• The Student Health Center is open Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m.
• Appointments can be made on the SIU portal at shc.siu.edu or by calling 618-536-2391.
• Testing for certain medical conditions is available at the Student Health Center, with appropriate charges.
• A pharmacy is available in the Student Health Center for over-the-counter medication needs.
• If students need assistance with transportation for non-emergency medical care, they can contact SIU's Department of Public Safety (DPS) at 618-453-3771 for assistance.

It is also important that we look out for our fellow Salukis. Encourage each other to seek medical care if someone is not feeling well and do what we can to accommodate each other’s needs when people are sick or injured. 

Together, we can have a safe and enjoyable academic year.

Sincerely, 
Dr. Andrew Riffey
Medical Chief of Staff, Student Health Services