I’m Sick! Now what?

by Eleya Raim – Horizon Features Editor

Oh no!  I woke up sick.  Now what do I do?  I don’t want to get in trouble for missing class.  Should I just go anyway?

With cold and flu season already in full swing at Hesston, maybe you’ve asked these questions.  Should you miss class or go anyway?  Several Hesston teachers have shared their policies and though the rules do differ from class to class, there is somewhat of a general consensus between teachers that if you’re showing symptoms, especially vomiting, you should stay away from class.

Professor of nursing, Gregg Schroeder states that he prefers that students call in sick if they have a fever over 100.5 degrees fahrenheit.  But any fever whatsoever would be a reason for a student of biology professor, Angie Brockmueller or acting professor, Laura Kraybill to stay away from class.

Brockmuller explains that “being in such close proximity to so many classmates makes for a ‘hotbed’ of germs.”

Being sick isn’t cool, so these instructors caution students to do everything in their power to stop the spread of disease.

Schroeder reminds students “to use hand sanitizers frequently, and also cough into their elbows” when they have a runny nose.  “The desks are a great place to spread viruses and bacteria,” he said.

If you are a student in the flight program, it is even more important not to show up ill.

“For our students of flight we start early in their training instructing them of their need for fitness in flight,” flight instructor George Felix said. “The main reason is simply safety. Everything is magnified with altitude including effects of the illness itself and especially the effects of even over the counter drugs. Illness and flying just do not mix.”

So, how do you handle the situation if you are ill?  If you’re really sick, go tell a Resident Director.  Some teachers even require a note from an RD to confirm that you aren’t feeling well and to make sure that you get the help you need.  Be proactive.  Call or text your teacher as soon as possible to let them know that you aren’t feeling well.  Worst case scenario, send an email.  Ask about what you missed and find out if you can do anything to make up the class time.

Be smart.  Your classmates don’t want your uncontrollable cough, diarrhea, skin rash, vomiting or temperature.  Remember to “do unto others as you would have them do to you!”  Stay healthy and if worse comes to worse, please, stay away from class.