Rising flu cases cause concern at BCU as new academic year begins

Briar Cliff student health services are becoming increasingly concerned about the approaching flu season, due to the surprising increase in continuous missed classes by students. They claim that these unusual increases were caused by the flu and had an impact on student’s academic and athletic performance. 

"Last year, we noticed a significant spike in flu cases starting in mid-October to all the way where students were so sick they couldn’t go anywhere on spring break,” said on-campus nurse Jacki Volz. “Several students missed a week or longer of class, which had an impact on both their academic performance and health."  

Students with challenging academic schedules found it difficult to deal with the flu. Junior Wil Lugar, a member of the Briar Cliff men’s basketball team, was one of the many people affected by the virus.  

“It was hard to come back to a normal schedule of basketball and classes after being out for so many days,” said Lugar.  

This year Briar Cliff has turned to different precautions to make sure a flu outbreak does not occur again. The goal this season is to help kids recover faster by focusing on improved access to flu vaccinations and bringing awareness to basic hygiene practices.  

Concerns of getting behind in class or activities like last year's flu season may be repeated as the new school year begins. 

“This year, we strongly encourage all students to receive the flu vaccine,” said Volz. “We saw that many students didn’t get the vaccine from our clinics, and students were just a lot sicker than in the past.”  

Briar Cliff will begin providing flu shots on Oct. 22 to allow students easier access without having to go off campus. The vaccination will cost $31 but can be charged to a student’s account. 

Students like Lugar, who had the flu last year, are already planning to get vaccinated.  

"I’m not taking any chances this time and will get the flu shot as soon as I can,” said Lugar. “I learned from last year that it is needed, and I don't want to be out for numerous days.” 

As the campus gets ready for another flu season, the focus on prevention and vaccination is clear, with the hope that this year will see fewer students sidelined by the flu. If students have symptoms, they can visit the Briar Cliff Health Center in Alverno Hall, where they can get free over-the-counter medication and talk to healthcare providers for extra assistance. 

Briar Cliff’s Student Health Center, located in Alverno Hall.