What you should know about monkeypox

Welcome to campus!

University Health Services (UHS) is here to support your health and wellbeing in many ways. Everyone’s version of wellbeing is unique to them and, as the semester gets underway, make time to take care of your mental, emotional, and physical health needs. Here are few tips to get you started.

COVID-19 information and resources

The most up-to-date campus information and resources about COVID-19 is available at covidresponse.wisc.edu including a FAQ section that is updated regularly. We know the start of the semester can be a stressful time as you adjust to new classes and new routines but your health and the health of those around you is important to your academic success. There are resources available to you if you test positive for COVID-19 or you feel sick.

Do not go to class or work if you feel sick or you test positive for COVID-19. If you are experiencing COVID symptoms, stay home except to get tested so you don’t spread the virus to others if you are positive for COVID-19. You should stay home at least for 5 full days and isolate from others in your home. Wear a high quality mask if you must be around others at home and in public.
Contact your instructors. Students unable to attend class meetings due to illness should contact their instructors to discuss options for access to course materials and activities and flexibility on course assignments. Students who must miss multiple class sessions should talk with their instructors and with their academic advisor about the best course of action. If you have trouble getting the support you need, reach out to your academic advisor, the chair of the department in which the course is being offered, or the Dean of Students Office.

Schedule appointments with the MyUHS app

MyUHS is the official health care app for UW-Madison students to schedule appointments, communicate with providers, and view lab results. Get the MyUHS mobile app through Google Play or the App Store.

Stop the spread of illness

Remember to:

Wash your hands after you use the bathroom, and before and after eating.
Stay home if you feel ill and avoid close contact with people who are ill.
Avoid sharing drinks, eating utensils, and lip balm with others.
Keep your space clean – regularly wipe down high-contact surfaces and wash your bedding.
Stay up to date on your vaccines, including your COVID-19 vaccines and your annual flu shot, which are both available at UHS at no cost.
Get tested for COVID-19 if you have symptoms or were exposed. Testing appointments can be scheduled in MyUHS. Rapid antigen tests are available for pick-up at no cost.

Medical services are by appointment and drop in

Appointments are available at the main UHS clinic (appointments required) and the Lakeshore Clinic (drop in). Appointments are also available by phone and Zoom. Our services include primary care, gynecology, sexual health, immunizations, physical therapy, athletic training, nutrition, and more! After hours, you can always connect with a nurse for medical advice by calling 608-265-5600.

Mental health services are easy to start and confidential

Appointments are available in person or remote. The first step to counseling and psychiatry appointments is to schedule an Access Appointment by calling 608-265-5600 (option 2) or log in to MyUHS. You can request providers with specific identities, backgrounds, experiences, or training during an Access Appointment.

There are mental health services that don’t require an appointment.

Group counseling and workshops: Learn about different groups or call MHS to schedule an appointment. Workshop topics are based on what students ask for. View the schedule at uhs.wisc.edu/thrive.
Let’s Talk: No-cost, informal, confidential consultations around campus. No topic is off limits. Common concerns include: stress, sadness, worry, relationships, academics, family problems, and financial struggles. Find a virtual or drop-in session here: uhs.wisc.edu/lets-talk/.
24/7 crisis support: Someone will always answer when you call 605-265-5600 (option 9).

Complete required programs if you’re a new student

UW-Madison requires incoming first-year and transfer students to complete three programs: AlcoholEdu, U Got This!, and Our Wisconsin during your first semester. Check your wisc.edu email for links to complete the programs before the deadlines.

Be a caring community member

Your role in creating a community of care is important. Most students will talk to a friend or roommate first if they’re experiencing a mental health issue. If a student needs immediate help, we encourage you to assist them and stay until help arrives. Under UW-Madison’s amnesty policy, there will be no disciplinary action against students who were drinking underage and helping another student by calling 9-1-1, getting a House Fellow, or flagging down a UW-Madison or Madison Police Officer.

Check out Rec Well, too!

Rec Well has services and programs to help you get active and thrive. Learn more at recwell.wisc.edu.

Best wishes for a successful semester; we’re here if you need us.

Aruna Josyula, MD, MPH
Director, Medical Services

Sarah Nolan, PhD
Director, Mental Health Services