ÌìÌì³Ô¹Ï

Acute respiratory illnesses affect areas of the body associated with the respiratory system and are a sudden onset of infection in the sinuses, nose, throat, lungs and airways.

Acute respiratory illnesses are typically caused by viruses, such as the common cold, COVID-19, influenza, and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Bacteria can also cause illnesses, such as pneumonia and strep throat.

For more information about acute respiratory illnesses, visit the .

Information for Students and Employees

When to stay home and when to return to NEIU

Students or employees with mild to moderate acute respiratory illness, regardless of whether testing is performed, and who are not moderately to severely immunocompromised, should:

• Not return to NEIU until at least three (3) days have passed since symptom onset and:
  • Be fever-free for at least 24 hours (without use of fever-reducing medicines),
  • Have symptoms that are improving, and
  • Feel well enough to return to NEIU and resume daily activities
• Wear a facemask for source control in all public areas for at least 7 days after symptom onset and/or positive test (if asymptomatic).

Testing guidance

If testing is performed that renders a positive result, but a student or employee is asymptomatic throughout their infection, they should not return to NEIU until at least three (3) days have passed since their first positive test.

Connecting with a healthcare provider

Students or employees who are moderately to severely immunocompromised or who have severe acute respiratory illness should seek medical attention and contact a primary care provider.

Common acute respiratory illness

Below is a list of the most common acute respiratory illnesses and links to Center for Disease Control information:

Vaccines Are Available at NEIU

Northeastern's Student Health Services provides numerous vaccines to students and employees, and are on hand to assist when needed.