September 3, 2024

Happy Fall! 

We would like to welcome you all to the fall term, whether you are returning or new to the Dartmouth community. This is an exciting time to be on our beautiful campus, and the Health and Wellness Office is here to help keep you healthy and to support your well-being. To start with a few reminders and updates:  

COVID-19 and Flu Vaccines 

The best way to keep yourself healthy during the upcoming respiratory viral season is to be vaccinated against both COVID-19 and influenza.  

  • The annually updated flu vaccine will be available for all students, faculty and staff. 

  • The newly updated COVID-19 vaccines will be available for students only.

  • Faculty and staff are encouraged to visit the health service pharmacy at Dick’s House, local commercial pharmacies, or their primary care providers to get COVID-19 vaccines, as they are covered under Dartmouth health insurance.

For Students: Updated COVID-19 and flu vaccines will be available for students at Paganucci Lounge in '53 Commons (walk in, no appointment necessary) on:

  • October 28 from 9 a.m.–5 p.m. 

  • November 7 from 12 p.m.–8 p.m.  

For Students, Faculty and Staff: Community Flu Shot Clinics will be held: 

  • October 4 from 9 a.m.–1 p.m. in Paganucci Lounge (’53 Commons)

  • October 7 from 7:30 a.m.–11:30 a.m. in Paganucci Lounge (’53 Commons)

  • October 11 from 11 a.m.–3 p.m. in Remsen 328 (Geisel)

  • October 14 from 11 a.m.–4 p.m. in Paganucci Lounge in ’53 Commons

  • October 16 from 12 p.m.–2 p.m. in Cohen Great Hall (Tuck) 

Additional opportunities for flu vaccines can be found on the student health website.

COVID Testing 

COVID-19 antigen tests are available throughout the fall term at the following times and locations:

Class of '53 Commons (FOCO) in the upper-level entryway  
Seven days a week from 7:30 a.m.–8:30 p.m. and from 9:30 p.m.–1:30 a.m. 

Baker-Berry Library at the circulation desk 

Monday through Friday 8 a.m.–12 a.m.

Saturday 10 a.m.–10 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m.–12 a.m.  

DHMC, Borwell Stockroom 

Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 1 p.m.–3:30 p.m. 

Tuesday and Thursday from 8 a.m.–11:30 a.m. 

Collis Student Center at the information desk 

Monday through Friday from 7 a.m.–1 a.m. 

Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m.–1 a.m. 

Dartmouth Health Service, Dick’s House in the entryway 

24 hours a day, 7 days a week 

You may pick up 2 test kits and masks per visit. Tests and masks are no longer available for order from central stores. For students, flu and COVID-19 testing can also be done at Dick’s House.

Treatment for flu and COVID-19 may be appropriate and recommended if you test positive. Students should seek care through student health services, while faculty and staff should reach out to your primary care provider to discuss options. Remember that the updated guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for respiratory viruses recommend that you stay home and away from others until your symptoms are improving and you are fever-free for 24 hours without fever-reducing medications. You should take added precautions for the next five days including wearing a mask to reduce the spread of illness.  

Eastern Equine Encephalitis (EEE) 

An EEE infection was recently diagnosed in a New Hampshire resident resulting in their death. Even though extremely rare, no vaccine or treatment is available against EEE. The best way to prevent EEE is to protect yourself from mosquito bites by:

  • Using EPA-registered insect repellents  

  • Wearing long-sleeved shirts and pants  

  • Wearing clothing and gear treated with permethrin

  • Taking steps to control mosquitos indoors and outdoors

Mpox 

The World Health Organization has declared mpox, previously known as monkeypox, a public health emergency of international concern. Mpox is transmitted mainly through close contact (skin-to skin, face-to-face). The available mpox vaccine is believed to provide protection against the current  outbreak. Students can discuss their risk and appropriateness of vaccination with Dick’s House providers and faculty and staff should reach out to their primary care providers for information.

Looking forward to a great fall term at Dartmouth!

Estevan A. Garcia, MD
Chief Health and Wellness Officer
Dartmouth College