iQuanti: The new school year is underway for college and university students across the United States. But this year promises to be anything but normal due in large part to the ongoing pandemic.
COVID-19 concerns remain top of mind for many college and university students, particularly those who are living in dorms. However, there are some dorm essentials that these students can use to combat the spread of COVID-19 and guard against other health and safety issues.
Here are eight healthy dorm essentials you need to know about.
1. Hand Sanitizer
The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends washing your hands frequently with water and soap to limit the risk of infection. However, if water and soap are unavailable, using an alcohol-based hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol can provide a viable alternative.
Hand sanitizers are available at retail stores and pharmacies. Stock up on hand sanitizer bottles for your dorm room, so you and your roommates will have no trouble keeping your hands clean. And remember to pick up portable hand sanitizer that you can carry on the go throughout the school year, too.
2. Disinfecting Wipes
Disposable cleaning wipes, aka disinfecting wipes, contain a germ-killing solution. As such, disinfecting wipes can be used to destroy germs on dorm room doorknobs, counters, phones, and other hard surfaces.
Before you pick up disinfecting wipes, read the product label. Here, you'll find information about the types of germs the wipes kill. You can also determine if the disinfecting wipes are antibacterial, which means they kill bacteria but not viruses.
3. Waterproof Sandals
You may want to wear waterproof sandals or flip-flops if your dorm has a communal shower or bathroom. Wearing some sort of shoe can help you minimize your risk of getting athlete's foot or another type of fungal infection.
4. Health Insurance Cards
Whether you're planning to stay on your parents' health insurance or go on a plan offered through your college, it's important to take a copy of your medical insurance card as well as your prescription, dental and/or vision insurance cards if you have those.
By ensuring your card is readily available, you can give it to a medical provider in the event that you require emergency care. It can also help to take a photo of your health insurance card on your smartphone or tablet. If you do so, snap a photo of the front and back of your card.
5. COVID-19 Vaccination Card
If you have been fully vaccinated for COVID-19, bring your card to school. This allows you to verify your vaccination status as needed. Like your health insurance card, it can be helpful to take a picture of the front and back of your COVID-19 vaccination card, too.
6. Face Masks
Many colleges and universities have imposed face mask mandates that may remain in effect for the entire school year. Bring multiple face masks with you to your dorm. If you have reusable face masks, wash them regularly. If you use disposable face masks, keep at least a few boxes on hand, so you can have fresh face masks available at any time.
Get Your Healthy Dorm Essentials Today
There is no telling when the COVID-19 pandemic will end. But with the aforementioned healthy dorm essentials, you'll be well-equipped to slow the spread of the coronavirus disease. Pick up these essentials for your dorm, and you can take a step toward creating a safe and healthy environment for yourself and your peers.
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Original Source: College Prep Health: 6 Healthy Dorm Essentials
