Avian Flu
March 5, 2025
H5 Bird flu, or avian influenza, is a viral infection that primarily affects birds but can, in rare cases, spread to humans. While the risk to the general public is low, it’s important to take precautions, especially if you work with birds or are in affected areas.
What to Know:
- People should avoid direct contact with wild birds and other animals infected with or suspected to be infected with avian influenza A viruses.
- If you must have direct/close contact with infected or potentially infected birds or other animals, wear recommended personal protective equipment (PPE).
- According to the CDC, there has been no reported human to human spread of H5 bird flu at this time and the current public health risk is LOW.
For additional information on prevention and treatment of H5 bird flu visit the CDC website.
Students who are experiencing flu-like symptoms can make an appointment at University Health & Counseling Services at myhealthconnect.case.edu or by calling 216.368.2450. Students can also access 24/7, virtual medical and mental health visits through at timelycare.com/cwru.
Faculty and staff who are experiencing flu-like symptoms should consult with their primary care provider.
Measles
March 5, 2025
Measles is a highly contagious viral disease that spreads through coughing and sneezing. It can cause serious complications, especially in young children and those with weakened immune systems.
Symptoms include:
- high fever
- cough
- runny nose
- red eyes
- rash that spreads across the body.
The best protection is vaccination. The MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine is safe and highly effective. Visit the CDC website for additional information on the prevention of measles and vaccine safety.
Students, faculty and staff who may be experiencing symptoms or have been exposed to measles, should contact University Health & Counseling Services at 216.368.2450.
Norovirus
January 13, 2025
In recent days, we have seen an increased number of CWRU students who have had sudden onset of vomiting and/or diarrhea. These symptoms are often caused by norovirus, a highly contagious but relatively benign viral infection. Norovirus is not the same as SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19.
The most effective way to stop the spread of the norovirus and other gastrointestinal illnesses (“stomach flus”) is to practice good handwashing and hygiene and stay home if you have vomiting or diarrhea. Students with symptoms should remain in their rooms and follow the guidelines here.
Students experiencing persistent, severe vomiting, diarrhea or stomach pain should call Health Services at 216.368.2450 for immediate medical advice. For medical emergencies, please call 911 off-campus or 216.368.3333 on-campus.
More information about managing your symptoms can be found here.
What is norovirus?
Norovirus is a virus that causes vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal cramping.
How is norovirus spread?
The virus is found in the stool or vomit of someone infected with norovirus. The virus can be spread by eating food or drink that has been contaminated with norovirus as well as by touching objects with norovirus on them (shaking hands with an infected person, touching a doorknob or keyboard that has norovirus on it and then touching your mouth, etc.
What are the signs and symptoms of norovirus?
Symptoms usually begin 12-48 hours after becoming infected with the virus and can include:
- Vomiting
- Watery, non-bloody diarrhea
- Stomach cramps
What is the treatment for norovirus?
- There is no treatment for norovirus; people usually recover on their own 2-3 days after symptoms start.
- Drinking plenty of liquids is important to replace fluid loss and to make sure the body does not become dehydrated.
How can norovirus be prevented?
- Handwashing is the most important step to prevent the spread of norovirus. It is essential to wash hands after using the restroom and before touching food.
- Anyone with diarrhea or vomiting should stay home and not attend class until symptoms are gone in order to prevent spreading norovirus to others.
- People with diarrhea or who are vomiting should not handle food, work in or attend daycare centers or schools or take care of patients in a healthcare facility until 48 hours after their symptoms are gone.
These helpful websites can provide additional information on norovirus: