Promoting Ebola awareness

At FIU we are always monitoring and planning for events that might have an impact on the university community. As you probably know, last week a case of Ebola was diagnosed in the United States, making this an appropriate time for each member of our community to think about our own readiness and awareness about infectious diseases.

We are a large, vibrant community with many of our members traveling abroad on academic and family trips. It is important for each of us to be vigilant and call your medical professional right away with any concerns about your own health. By calling, you are taking care of yourself while reducing the potential risk of transmission of any disease to others.  When calling, please inform the medical team of your symptoms and that you have recently travelled to an area where Ebola is prevalent or have been exposed to a person who has been diagnosed with Ebola.  In doing so, it will ensure you are triaged properly and referred to the most appropriate medical facility.

Students may contact Student Health Services at (305) 348-2401 for the MMC or (305) 919-5620 for BBC. Faculty, staff and members of the greater community may call FIU Health at (305) 348-DOCS.

Please note that FIU Health has several infectious disease experts, including Dr. Aileen Marty, who was tapped by the World Health Organization help manage the Ebola epidemic in Nigeria.

FIU Health has a Travel Medicine Program that specializes in preventive care and vaccines necessary before traveling to certain parts of the world. As we get closer to the holidays when many in the university community tend to travel, please keep in mind this important resource.

To learn more about Ebola and other infectious diseases, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.

You may also wish to visit the Florida Department of Health in Miami-Dade County.