Health Alerts

The County of Los Angeles Health Department issues a rain advisory when there is significant rainfall which may increase bacteria levels in ocean waters. During and after rainstorms, contaminants within the runoff enter the ocean that can elevate bacteria levels for up to 3 days depending upon the intensity of the rain and the volume of runoff. These elevated bacteria levels may cause illness. The Department of Public Health recommends that beach users avoid contact with ocean water for at least 3 days after significant rainfall, especially near flowing storm drains, creeks, and rivers. Any student who suspects they are ill due to contaminated water may schedule an appointment at the Student Health Center using their Patient Portal or calling 310.506.4316 option 3. Most services are included at no additional cost as part of the Thrive Wellness Program.

Heal the Bay offers a helpful report card you can use to check your favorite beach before getting into the water.

 

A voluntary recall of eye ointments sold at CVS Pharmacies and Walmart was announced on February 12, 2024. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration identifies CVS Health Lubricant Eye Ointment, Lubricant PM Ointment, Equate Lubricant Eye Ointment, and Equate Stye Lubricant Eye Ointment as the recalled ointments and provides both pictures and descriptions on their website. Learn more using the link below. Any student experiencing symptoms of eye infection or related harm may schedule an appointment at the Student Health Center using their Patient Portal or calling 310.506.4316 option 3. Most services are included at no additional cost as part of the Thrive Wellness Program.

As winter winds down and spring promises more time outdoors, keep in mind that ticks are more abundant during these seasons. Time spent outdoors hiking, camping, gardening, playing in leaves, or outdoor photography, especially in grassy or brushy areas, can increase your likelihood of coming into contact with ticks that may carry disease. Learn more about prevention, identification, and what to do if you are bitten using the California Department of Public Health's website with the link below. Any student suspecting they are ill due to a tick bite may schedule an appointment at the Student Health Center using their Patient Portal or calling 310.506.4316 option 3. Most services are included at no additional cost as part of the Thrive Wellness Program.

The Centers for Disease Control reports an increase in measles cases in the United States despite its former elimination of the disease in 2000.  As of February 22, 2024, there are 35 confirmed cases.  According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, most were among children and adolescents eligible for vaccination who had not received the vaccine. Seven were introduced to the U.S. by international travelers. Students who plan to travel, especially those who are unvaccinated or undervacinated should take note of this risk. Learn more about measles, measles transmission, symptoms, and complications using the link below. Any student wishing to review their vaccination records or in need of the measles vaccine may schedule an appointment at the Student Health Center using their Patient Portal or calling 310.506.4316 option 3. These services are included at no additional cost as part of the Thrive Wellness Program.

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health is working with state and national partners on an international outbreak of monkeypox. Monkeypox is a rare disease that is caused by infection with the monkeypox virus. Monkeypox is of public health concern because the illness is similar to smallpox and can be spread from infected humans, animals, and materials contaminated with the virus. Monkeypox is less transmissible and usually less severe than smallpox. The risk of monkeypox in the general population remains very low. In the current outbreak, most cases have been among gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men or trans persons. However, anyone can get monkeypox if they are exposed. If you think you have had an exposure, have symptoms you are concerned about, or need to speak with someone about your risk, please speak with your primary care physician or contact the Student Health Center.

The Student Health Center is following guidance from the World Health Organization, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health. SHC clinicians are trained to identify monkeypox, and our office is procuring the necessary supplies for testing. Medical staff can complete risk assessments to help students assess their risk and, if appropriate, refer students for vaccination or post-exposure prophylaxis. At this time, monkeypox vaccination is not available at the SHC. Our office is working with Housing and Residence Life to make appropriate preparations for isolation space should a residential student contract monkeypox. The University recognizes some students may be experiencing ongoing feelings of uncertainty or anxiety. As a reminder, mental health resources are available through the Counseling Center. 

Symptoms

Symptoms of monkeypox can include:

• Fever
• Headache
• Muscle aches and backache
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Chills
• Exhaustion
• Respiratory symptoms (e.g., sore throat, nasal congestion, or cough)
• A rash that may be located on or near the genitals (penis, testicles, labia, and vagina) or anus (butthole) but could also be on other areas like the hands, feet, chest, face, or mouth
  • The rash will go through several stages, including scabs, before healing
  • The rash can look like pimples or blisters and may be painful or itchy

You may experience all or only a few symptoms:

• Sometimes, people get a rash first, followed by other symptoms; others only experience a rash
• Most people with monkeypox will get a rash
• Some people have developed a rash before (or without) other symptoms

Monkeypox symptoms usually start within 3 weeks of exposure to the virus. If someone has flu-like symptoms, they will usually develop a rash 1-4 days later. Monkeypox can be spread from the time symptoms start until the rash has healed, all scabs have fallen off, and a fresh layer of skin has formed. The illness typically lasts 2-4 weeks.

Prevention

Take the following steps to prevent getting monkeypox:

• Avoid close, skin-to-skin contact with people who have a rash that looks like monkeypox
  • Do not touch the rash or scabs of a person with monkeypox
  • Do not kiss, hug, cuddle, or have sex with someone with monkeypox
• Avoid contact with objects and materials that a person with monkeypox has used
  • Do not share eating utensils or cups with a person with monkeypox
  • Do not handle or touch the bedding, towels, or clothing of a person with monkeypox
• Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer, especially before eating or touching your face and after you use the bathroom

Vaccination

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends vaccination for people who have been exposed to monkeypox and people who may be more likely to get monkeypox. Currently, monkeypox vaccine supplies are very limited. Learn more about local vaccination clinics and eligibility requirements on the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health monkeypox webpage.

The University continues to work closely with international and domestic officials to monitor Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19).