Is testing for influenza available to students?

In-person testing for influenza is available to students during academic terms through Student Health and Counseling (SHAC).

That said, not all students require testing if they are feeling ill. Students at high risk of severe symptoms (those with pre-exiting respiratory or immunosuppressive conditions) may be eligible for antiviral therapy. These students should seek out an appointment with SHAC within 48 hours of symptom onset.

Students who are not at high risk for severe illness with influenza-like symptoms should proceed as though they were positiveby staying home if they are sick until at least 24 hours after their fever is gone without the use of fever-reducing medicines, or after symptoms have improved (at least 4-5 days after influenza symptoms started). When around others, we recommend wearing a mask to prevent the spread of illness.

If SHAC is closed, students can seek services from local resources including urgent care and primary care services in Northfield.

What happens if I test positive?

Current recommendations from the CDC and Minnesota Department of Health advise individuals to stay home if they are sick until at least 24 hours after their fever is gone without the use of fever-reducing medicines, or after symptoms have improved (at least 4-5 days after influenza symptoms started). When around others, we recommend wearing a mask to prevent the spread of illness.

The influenza virus can be detected in most infected persons beginning one day before symptoms develop and up to five to seven days after becoming sick. People with influenza are most contagious in the first three to four days after their illness begins. However, infants and people with weakened immune systems who are infected with flu viruses may be contagious for longer than seven days.

How do I protect myself from getting ill?

  • Carleton College continues to strongly recommend immunization with the annual influenza vaccine for those who are eligible.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • If you are sick, limit contact with others as much as possible to keep from infecting them.
  • Wash your hands frequently and disinfect commonly touched surfaces.

Where can I find more information?

This website will continue to post updates as they are relevant. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and Minnesota Department of Health are also excellent resources.