Infectious Diseases

Infectious diseases are diseases that are spread from person to person (e.g., pertussis, meningitis, tuberculosis, measles, chickenpox) either directly or indirectly. Signs and symptoms will vary depending on the disease. Symptoms of concern are: fever, rash, diarrhea, prolonged cough, and headaches.

Limit the spread of infectious diseases before they have the potential to cause, or contribute to, serious widespread illness by taking the following actions:

  • ­Wash your hands frequently.
  • ­Cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
  • ­Routinely clean and disinfect surfaces.
  • Practice a healthy lifestyle: exercise, eat a balanced diet, maintain good hygiene, and ensure sufficient sleep.
  • ­Handle and prepare food safely: store foods at the correct temperature range, cook foods (especially meats) thoroughly, wash produce, prepare uncooked meats and raw produce separately, observe expiration dates, and avoid sharing utensils.
  • Follow universal precautions when handling blood and bodily fluids by wearing personal protective equipment like gloves, gowns, and eye protection.
  • ­When sick, avoid the following to prevent the spread of disease: traveling, public places, work, and school.

Students

Students living in student housing may be required to be cleared by the University Health Service if they are diagnosed with an infectious disease in order to reside in residence halls. Refer to the UIC Resident Handbook at housing.uic.edu.

Employees

­Employees may be required to be cleared to work by the University Health Service if diagnosed with an infectious disease. Refer to the Fitness for Duty Policy at hr.uic.edu.