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Student Health Services

What To Do If You Have COVID Symptoms

If you are experiencing symptoms of illness consistent with COVID-19 infection (fever, cough and/or shortness of breath):

  • Stay home. You should restrict activities outside your home, except for getting medical care. Do not go to work, school or public areas.
  • If you are a student, call:
    • Student Health Services (570)941-7667 to report symptoms and receive guidance on medical care.  Do not walk in for an appointment at this time.  Always call ahead to discuss your symptoms with our office. 
    • For immediate medical assistance after hours or on weekends University Police will be available at 570-941-7777.
See further information about COVID-19

Monkeypox

The University of Scranton and student Health Services monitors public health concerns including the recent monkeypox outbreak. The Pennsylvania Department of Health and the Center for Disease Control and Prevention continue to provide updates to educate our clinicians as well as the general public.  This an evolving situation that we are watching closely to determine the appropriate health and safety measures to protect the members of our University community.  This page is designed to offer important information to our community regarding monkeypox.

What is Monkeypox?

According to the CDC, monkeypox is a rare but serious disease that often involves a rash and flu-like symptoms (i.e., fever, chills, sore muscles, headache, fatigue).  The rash can be painful and is usually on the face, inside the mouth, and on other parts of the body like the hands, chest, and genitals. Some people get the rash first, followed by other symptoms, while other people only develop a rash. Infections with the strain of monkeypox virus identified in the recent U.S. outbreak are rarely fatal and most people recover in 2-4 weeks.

How does Monkeypox Spread?

All populations are susceptible to monkeypox, which is most often spread through close physical or skin-to-skin contact (i.e., hugging, cuddling, sex, close contact sports) with a person who has a rash or scabs from monkeypox.  It can be transmitted through spit droplets during close conversation and kissing. Finally, you can get monkeypox from contact with objects, fabrics, and surfaces that have been used by someone with monkeypox (clothing, bedding, or towels).

What can I do to protect myself?

According to the CDC, the best way to protect yourself from monkeypox is to avoid skin to skin contact with anyone who has a rash that looks like monkeypox.

What should I do if I have symptoms?

Student who have a new or unexplained rash or other symptoms of monkeypox should remain in their place of residence and contact Student Health Services immediately at 570-941-7667.  Student Health Services will assist with evaluating symptoms and coordinating testing, if necessary. If you think you may have monkeypox, cover all parts of the rash with clothing, gloves or bandages and wear a mask. Avoid touching anyone until you have been evaluated by a healthcare provider.

How is Monkeypox treated?

Monkeypox generally resolves without treatment in 2 - 4 weeks. There are no treatments specifically for monkeypox virus infections. However, monkeypox and smallpox viruses are genetically similar, which means that antiviral drugs and vaccines developed to protect against smallpox may be used to prevent and treat monkeypox virus infections. 

Do I need to be vaccinated?

Vaccination is not currently recommended for members of the public who are not at high risk of recent exposure to monkeypox. However, the Pennsylvania Department of Health has a limited supply of vaccine and has instructed healthcare providers on how to access the vaccine supply, if recommended.

Resources for StudentsWhat You Need to Know about Monkeypox if You are a Teen or Young Adult (CDC)