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Kansas State University

Lafene Health Center
Kansas State University
1105 Sunset Avenue
Manhattan, KS 66502-3761
785-532-6544
lafene@k-state.edu

Frequently Asked Questions

Is your question not answered on this page?

  • Call 785.532.6595
  • Stop by the Health Promotion office (Lafene Health Center—Room 266)
  • E-mail your question to healthy@k-state.edu

The healthyKSU listserv, through Lafene Health Center, is for students, faculty, and staff who would like to receive health tips and notices for the K-State community. Subscribe by sending an email to healthy@k-state.edu.

Asthma
What special services are available to help me control my asthma?

If you have been diagnosed with asthma, Lafene Health Center's Asthma Clinic is for you. Our goal is to help you gain control of your asthma symptoms. Also, receive timely tips and health information from getair-L@listserv.k-state.edu (a listserv for patients with asthma). To subscribe, email healthy@k-state.edu.

What are "triggers" and what should I know about them?

Triggers are the things that cause you to have asthma attacks. They can cause your airways to become swollen, tightened, and clogged due to extra mucus. It’s important to know that triggers vary from person to person. Irritants that cause your asthma attacks may not be the same as those that cause your friend’s asthma attacks. Everyone needs to identify their own asthma triggers and learn to avoid them.

Check out the following website for more information about triggers. This website offers helpful links with information about how to avoid and control specific types of triggers, such as tobacco smoke, dust mites, pollens, etc. - www.nationaljewish.org/disease-info/diseases/asthma/about/worse.

Check out www.allergycontrol.com for products ranging from bedding to air cleaners to minimize irritants and help you breath easier.

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What is a peak flow meter and how/why should I use one?

A peak flow meter is an instrument that measures your peak expiratory flow. This peak flow number indicates how well your lungs are working and is an important value to know in order to manage your asthma symptoms. Your health care provider may want you to manage asthma symptoms using an Asthma Action Plan [pdf].

  1. Stand or sit upright.
  2. Move indicator to bottom of numbered scale.
  3. Inhale to maximum - take in as deep a breath as possible.
  4. Place mouthpiece in mouth between lips and teeth and close lips tightly around mouthpiece. (Do not put tongue in hole.)
  5. Blow out hard and fast in a single blow.
  6. Repeat steps 2-5 two times; best of three is the peak flow number.

Your health care provider can instruct you on how often to determine your peak flow number and how to use it to manage any asthma symptoms.

    Here are some tips to help ensure accurate readings when using a peak flow meter:
  • Don’t slouch. Stand or sit up straight.
  • When exhaling, do it fast and from the lungs instead of the cheeks.
  • Don’t place tongue in or spit in the mouthpiece!

For more information about peak flow meters, see this website:
www.nationaljewish.org/healthinfo/conditions/asthma/lifestyle-management/tools/peak-flow-meter.aspx

Peak flow meters fall into the category of durable medical products (DMP). It’s important to know that for filing medical insurance claims correctly.

    There are two Manhattan locations where you can get DMP:
  • Manhattan Medical Supply, 313 Poyntz Ave., 785.539.4038
  • Midland Medical Inc., 620 Tuttle Creek Blv., 785.539.7005

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What is an MDI, an HFA, and a DPI? How do I use them?

Metered Dose Inhaler (MDI) is a medication delivery device consisting of a pressurized medication canister that fits into a plastic case with a mouthpiece. The medication is delivered as a mist when the canister is pressed into the case. The propellant that had been used contained chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) which deplete the earth's ozone layer. Alternatives have been developed and the CFC propellant is being replaced with hydrofluoroalkane (HFA).

The HFA inhaler will look much the same as the CFC inhaler but patients report a "softer, warmer" spray with a little different taste. Also, you may not feel the spray as much in the back of the throat. The technique is the same for both the CFC and HFA inhalers.

Another alternative is the dry powder inhaler (DPI) which doesn't require a propellant. Dry powder inhalers are a little different and their use is described at this website: www.nationaljewish.org/disease-info/treatments/devices/dry-powder.

More information about all types of inhaler devices, medications and their proper use can be found at the following websites. Find out more information about the particular device that you are using.

Specific asthma medications are explained at the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology site as well: www.aaaai.org/patients/resources/medication_guide.asp

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The doctor says to prep and prime my MDI/HFA inhaler. What does that mean?

In order for your MDI/HFA to be totally effective (and to ensure correct dose delivery), these inhalers need to be primed before the first dose and again after several days of non-use. Some inhalers should also be primed if they are dropped or even washed! The drug and propellant separate when not in use. So, it’s important to shake the canister well to mix the two together. Failure to shake the canister results in up to a 33% reduction in the amount of drug delivered. Priming is done by spraying the medicine into the air before using the inhaler. Remember, the number of priming puffs needed and the frequency of priming varies with the specific MDIs/HFAs. Determine how and when to prime your specific inhaler at the following website: www.nationaljewish.org/healthinfo/medications/lung-diseases/devices/metered-dose/hfa-propellant.aspx#6.

Remember to count the priming puffs toward your total number of puffs.

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How can I track the doses in my inhaler? How do I know when it is empty?

It’s important to keep track of how many doses are in the inhaler. The number of doses is printed on the canister. Remember to discard your canister after using the given amount of doses. Tracking is important to prevent using an empty inhaler. Remember, the canister contains both medication and propellant. It may feel as if there is medication left, but the only thing left in the canister is propellant!

If the inhaler is used daily, calculate the life of the canister by: total number of puffs divided by how many puffs used every day. This will give you the number of days the canister will last. Add this number of days to the date that the inhaler is first used. Write both the start date and the stop using date on the canister. Plan to get a new inhaler a week before your calculated “empty” date.

If the inhaler is used "as needed", track your doses on a piece of tape on your canister. Don't forget to add the "priming puffs" to your doses used number. For more information, check out 'How Can I Tell If My Inhaler Is Empty?' at www.nationaljewish.org/healthinfo/medications/lung-diseases/devices/metered-dose/hfa-propellant.aspx#9.

Some inhalers have a built-in counter so it is always visible how many doses remain. Always plan ahead and make sure to have the new inhaler before the old one is gone.

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Why should I use a spacer?

Valved Holding Chambers (VHCs) and spacers slow aerosol velocity from your metered dose inhaler (MDI). They help make sure the medicine goes to the airways of your lungs, instead of your mouth, throat or stomach. In addition to lessening side effects, they also allow inhalation of a higher number of smaller particles, allowing you to get as much medication as possible. VHCs are preferred, such as Aerochamber or Vortex, because it takes less effort to open the low-resistance one-way valve. And, the one-way valve prevents exhalation into the chamber. Masks should be used with infants and children. (Information provided by Children’s Mercy Family Health Partners)

For information about using and cleaning your specific brand of spacer, see this website: www.nationaljewish.org/disease-info/treatments/devices/metered/mdi-spacer.aspx

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Do I need to clean my inhaler? How?

It’s important to clean your inhaler once a week, because the opening can clog up and prevent you from getting the correct dose of medication. Cleaning your inhaler is simple but varies depending on what inhaler type and medication that you use. Refer to the chart at this website: www.nationaljewish.org/healthinfo/medications/lung-diseases/devices/metered-dose/hfa-propellant.aspx#5, to determine what steps to take to clean your specific inhaler. The chart also lists any special considerations, such as the need to rinse and gargle after using certain inhalers.

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How do I use and clean my nebulizer?

Sometimes medication is delivered as an inhaled treatment, using a nebulizer delivery system. It is important that the nebulizer is kept clean and used properly. Follow your particular machine's manufacturer's instructions. This website provides step by step instructions for assembling and delivering the treatment using a nebulizer as well as instructions in cleaning and maintaining the equipment: www.nationaljewish.org/disease-info/treatments/
devices/metered/nebulizer/instructions.aspx

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What if I can't pay for my medications?

Many pharmaceutical companies offer patient medication assistance programs to help people afford necessary medications. Ask your health care provider if the medication you are using might qualify under one of these programs. The company will require that you complete a form so they can determine eligibility. Some of the pharmaceutical companies are listed with links to their specific program information.

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Exercise
What services are available if I get injured at the Rec?

There are athletic trainers available at K-State Recreational Services to assess your injury and provide immediate first aid and recommend follow-up treatment.

Does Lafene have a doctor who specializes in sports medicine?

David M. Smith, M.D. is the Director of the Eriksen Sports Medicine Clinic at Lafene. He graduated from the University of Kansas Medical School and is Board Certified in Family Practice and Sports Medicine. He has had a private practice with Orthopedic and Sports Medicine Consultants. The Sports Medicine Clinic provides evaluation and treatment of sports related injuries, to include information and advice on fitness, injury prevention, and health effects of exercise. Appointments may be made by calling 785.532.6544.

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Health Insurance
Is there health insurance available at K-State?

The Kansas Board of Regents offers student health insurance through a Student Health Insurance Plan.

Health care services can be costly, often accruing medical care bills quickly. As a student at K-State, a student health fee is included in your tuition each semester. The Student Health Fee allows the student to see a healthcare provider at Lafene Health Center free of charge. This fee also entitles access to all services provided at the Health Center.

Students needing ancillary (other) services or procedures such as laboratory tests, x-rays, physical therapy treatments, medications or medical supplies will be assessed a charge, customarily much less than you would have to pay in the general community. There will be a charge for physical exams for employment, etc. which require forms and/or letters to be completed by a provider. Charges incurred at Lafene Health Center are the responsibility of the student. Any question concerning the cost of a procedure or service should be directed to the Business Office.

The health center is not open at night. Also, persons with life threatening emergencies cannot be treated at the health center. For these situations, students are directed to call 911 or Mercy Health Center—785.776.3322.

See the Health Insurance Information internet resources.

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H1N1 flu (swine flu)
What is H1N1 influenza?

H1N1 influenza is a disease similar to the seasonal flu, but it tends to afflict a younger population (median age 17 years in Kansas.) The disease lasts up to a week or longer, but the initial fever may be gone in just a few days.

    Symptoms of H1N1 flu in humans are similar to symptoms of seasonal flu and include:
  • Fever greater than 100 degrees
  • Body aches
  • Coughing
  • Sore throat
  • Respiratory congestion
  • Headache
  • In some cases, nausea, diarrhea and vomiting

CDC resources:
Action Steps for Students, Faculty, and Staff to Prevent the Spread of Flu

What is Kansas State University doing about the H1N1 flu (swine flu) situation?

K-State administration is evaluating the situation daily. K-State has a pandemic flu plan that outlines actions to be put into effect by university officials should the CDC and the World Health Organization declare a flu pandemic. You can view the plan at www.k-state.edu/safety/safety/biosafety.

What steps are being taken?

K-State is following the recommendations of Kansas Department of Health and Environment. We are monitoring the situation closely and are prepared to follow our pandemic flu plan.

Are there any plans to cancel classes or activities?

Not at this time. The K-State pandemic flu plan stipulates when classes or activities are to be curtailed or cancelled.

Should I wear a facemask?

No, we are not recommending the use of facemasks at this time.

How can I prevent the spread of H1N1 and other flu to others?

H1N1 flu is spread through respiratory droplets that are coughed or sneezed into the air. It may also be spread by virus that remains on hands after coughing or sneezing that gets spread to others through common use items such as phones, doorknobs, desks and keyboards.

  • If you are sick, stay home to avoid spreading illness to coworkers and friends. DO NOT go to class, dining halls or any social gatherings.
  • Cough or sneeze into your elbow or a tissue and properly dispose of used tissues.
  • Clean hands after using tissues with an alcohol-based hand sanitizer or soap and warm water.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
  • Stay healthy by eating a balanced diet, drinking plenty of water and getting adequate rest and exercise.

CDC resources:
Prevention & Treatment
Contamination & Cleaning

Where should I go if I feel ill with flu-like symptoms?
  • Take your temperature.
    • Check your temperature - http://firstaid.webmd.com/body-temperature
    • If you have a fever of 100°F or above and other symptoms (as above), take an over the counter (OTC) medicine to help reduce the fever and make you feel better.
  • Stay home! DO NOT go to class, dining halls or any social gatherings. Isolate yourself.
  • Get plenty of rest
  • Drink lots of fluids
  • Eat light meals
  • If you are a K-State student, contact your RA (if you live in a residence hall) or the Office of Student Life at 785.532.6432 so arrangements can be made to assist you.
What are the emergency warning signs?

From the CDC (www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/sick.htm#3)

In children

  • Fast breathing or trouble breathing
  • Bluish skin color
  • Not drinking enough fluids
  • Not waking up or not interacting
  • Being so irritable that the child does not want to be held
  • Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough
  • Fever with a rash

In adults

  • Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
  • Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
  • Sudden dizziness
  • Confusion
  • Severe or persistent vomiting

If these signs develop, seek medical care right away.

What should I do if I am ill and can't attend my classes?

Students should call the Office of Student Life at 785.532.6432 or your college's dean's office for assistance in notifying your professors and information about working with them to make up missed work.

What supplies should I have in case I get sick?
    It is a good idea to keep a few simple medical supplies available:
  • Thermometer (a reliable, digital one is best)
  • Over the counter medicine such as:
    • Tylenol® (acetaminophen)
    • Advil® (ibuprofen)
    • Aleve® (naproxen)
  • Fluids such as water, juice and decaffeinated tea
  • Tissues
  • Hand sanitizer

CDC Interim Guidance for Novel H1N1 Flu (Swine Flu):
Caring for Someone Sick at Home

When can I go back to class or work?

Once your temperature stays in normal range (96°- 99°F) for 24 hours without using fever reducing medicine.

How will I be notified if a flu pandemic is confirmed?

K-State will notify members of the K-State community by email, and provide information on the K-State main page. K-State will also alert those who have registered for automated emergency notification. You can read more about the automated notification and sign up for it here.

What should I do if I have plans to go to Mexico or another area of H1N1 flu (swine flu) outbreak?

Please refer to the CDC recommendations for travelers which are updated regularly.

Who has answers to my questions about H1N1 flu (swine flu) in animals? How about food safety questions?

Please call the K-State Research and Extension office at 785.532.5820.

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Immunizations
What immunizations are K-State students required to have?

Kansas Board of Regents policy, effective starting the fall semester of 2006, requires all incoming students residing in university housing at a Regent's institution be vaccinated for meningitis or sign a waiver declining the vaccination.

The Centers for Disease Control and American College Health Association recommend that you consider several immunizations or screenings before entering college. (Tuberculosis screening is required for all students who have lived in a "high risk" foreign country for over 4 months before enrollment at K-State is allowed.) These vaccinations/tests can be obtained from your local physician, health department or Lafene Health Center (call 785.532.6544 for an appointment). Follow these links for more information about immunizations and other health policies for students attending K-State.

What if I haven't kept up-to-date in receiving my vaccinations?

Lafene's Allergy and Immunization Clinic can help you get up-to-date with your immunizations. Call 785.532.6544 to schedule a consult and develop a plan for obtaining missed vaccinations.

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Nutrition
How can I avoid gaining weight at college?

A change in lifestyle may involve an increased risk for weight gain. By recognizing unhealthy habits early in your college career, you can take action to prevent major weight changes. The American Dietetic Association links college weight gain to "all-you-can-eat dining facilities, evening snacks, empty-calorie food choices and recent dieting experiences." Some guidelines are:

  • Watch the "all you can eat" syndrome and think about "balance". Look for fewer high fat entrees and desserts. If you choose a high-fat food, balance it with a low-fat item, such as vegetables, salad with low-fat dressing, fresh fruit.
  • Learn to manage time. Avoid skipping meals and plan ahead for healthy eating on the go..
  • Don't let alcohol calories do you in. Alcohol contains excess calories which can quickly add up to excess pounds.
  • Keep physically active.
  • Seek advice from campus resources. Lafene Health Center offers nutrition counseling and information on healthy weight management.
  • Don't take weight maintenance to an extreme. Aim for fitness and balanced eating, not fad diets obsession over food intake and/or exercise..
  • Stock up on healthy snacks: fruit, popcorn, veggies, low-fat dairy, nuts.
  • Be aware of proper portions—avoid "super-sizing" it!

If you have further questions, read about Lafene's Nutritional Counseling and/or call 785.532.6544 to schedule an appointment with a registered dietitian.

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I love all the choices in the dining hall but I know I'll gain weight...what can I do when there are so many great foods to try?

Remember, you don't have to try everything at once...it will be served again. Enjoy the entire dining experience which includes socializing with friends. Take your time and be mindful of what you eat.

    Some suggestions from the American Dietetic Association include:
  • Try one new food each night or each week.
  • Limit your meal to one plate of food with reasonable portions.
  • Aim for foods from each food group .
  • Eat a piece of fruit before going to dinner.
  • Stop when you are full.

If you need additional information, contact Lafene at 785.532.6544 and schedule an appointment with a registered dietitian.

How do I know if my calorie intake is appropriate for the amount of activity or exercise I put in?

The amount of fuel (or calories) you need each day depends on your age, sex, size, and how physically active you are. An estimate of your daily needs may be found at www.MyPyramid.gov.

For a more specific, individualized assessment of your energy and nutrient needs, call 785.532.6544 to schedule an appointment with a registered dietitian.

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How much caffeine is too much?

Most health experts recommend using common sense and moderation when consuming caffeine. Most health organizations define moderate as no more than 300 milligrams or the equivalent of three cups of coffee per day. More importantly, you should not replace your daily water intake with caffeinated beverages. Caffeine is not addictive in the same way as nicotine and alcohol but it can cause you to experience side effects if you are used to large quantities and then stop consuming it. Side effects may include headaches, irregular heart beats, trembling, fatigue and mood changes. Withdrawal from caffeine should be gradual.

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What is S.N.A.C and how do I schedule a S.N.A.C. program?

S.N.A.C. stands for Sensible Nutrition And body image Choices. This peer educator group presents information to campus groups about healthy eating strategies and body image. Call Health Promotion at 785.532.6595 or e-mail snac@k-state.edu to request a presentation.

How can I become a peer educator in S.N.A.C.?

Currently, peer educators are recruited from the K-State Dietetics, Kinesiology and Human Nutrition degree programs. However, other interested students are welcome to apply to become a SNAC peer educator. An application is available by calling or stopping by the Health Promotion department at Lafene (Room 268, 785.532.6595) or call Dianna Schalles (785.532.5240) if you have questions.

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Quitting Smoking
How can I get help to stop smoking?

Become a "K.I.S.S."er—a K-Stater Inspired to Stop Smoking. Lafene Health Center can help you quit smoking. Assistance is provided through one-on-one sessions, e-mail/phone support, information via listserv, support groups as desired. E-mail kiss@k-state.edu for information. Check out what the benefits are to stopping smoking and use online and other resources to help you quit smoking.

What drugs are available to help me stop smoking and are they available at Lafene?

Lafene stocks nicotine replacement therapy such as Nicotine gum, Nicotine patch and the Nicotine inhaler. There is also a Nicotine nasal spray; however, it is not available through the Lafene pharmacy. The pharmacy also has bupropion (Zyban) on hand. A pharmacist can answer your questions regarding cost. Some over-the-counter therapies may be purchased at local pharmacies as well. Your Lafene healthcare provider can discuss appropriate options and therapies with you. Make an appointment by calling 785.532.6544.

What hints do you have to help me get started in the quit process?
    Get Inspired to Stop Smoking!! Check out the K.I.S.S. website.
  1. Make a decision to quit. It has to be YOUR decision, not someone else's or for someone. Only if quitting is your choice will you be able to find the desire and commitment required to stick with it.
  2. "Pick a day to save your life!" Set a date, mark the calendar. Commit. Try to avoid high stress times so you don't sabotage your success.
  3. Tell everyone. Ask for support. Get people involved with your process. Not only can they help you through difficult days but they can help you stay accountable…to yourself.
  4. Find out what quit method is best for you. Lafene can help. Call 785.532.6595 to set up an appointment or e-mail kiss@k-state.edu.
  5. Be prepared…The first week is the hardest. Stay committed. Use your resources.

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SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome)
What are the symptoms of SARS?
  • Fever over 100.4 F (38 C)
  • Cough
  • Shortness of breath
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Other breathing problems

Call one of the phone numbers below if you develop any of these symptoms. During Lafene hours (Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., or Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., call Lafene at 785.532.6544. At any other time, call Mercy Regional Health Center at 785.776.2800. No matter which location you call, mention that you are calling about SARS.

Where can I find out what areas of the world are SARS travel advisory areas?

Comprehensive current information about SARS can be found at the CDC Web site—SARS Information for Travelers. The site lists current SARS risk areas and their status.

If I just came from an area that has had cases of SARS, what should I do?

If you are coming from an area where SARS is present, or have been in contact with someone with SARS, your assistance is requested.

    Please come to the Lafene Health Center upon your arrival to Manhattan. If you cannot come to the health center, please call 785.532.6544 and speak to the triage nurse. Tell the nurse that you are calling about SARS.
  1. Take and record your temperature two (2) times daily for ten (10) days. (Thermometers are available at Lafene.)
  2. Follow instructions that will be provided to you if you become ill. (Detailed instructions available at www.k-state.edu/lafene/sars.htm.)
Where can I find get information and health advice about traveling out of this country?

Travelers are advised to contact Lafene Health Center for current travel advice. Lafene offers a Travel Consult to assist students, faculty or staff who are traveling within and beyond the borders of the United States. Kansas State University encourages informed decision-making about travel to areas for which CDC has issued travel advisories and alerts.

The CDC discourages all but essential travel to SARS advisory areas. The CDC does not discourage travel to SARS alert areas, but wishes to inform travelers about the occurrence of SARS cases in these areas and what can be done to remain healthy while traveling in these areas.

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Sexual Health
What does abstinence mean?

Voluntary refraining from indulgence of an appetite or craving..restraint of one's appetites or desires. In the case of sexual abstinence, it is the absence of sexual activity. In other words, no sexual activity!

What are the most common sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) on campus?
  1. Herpes
  2. Genital Warts
  3. Chlamydia
Where can I go to get tested for STDs?

Lafene offers STD testing (including HIV) and counseling for both men and women. Women can obtain testing through the Women's Clinic and men through the General Clinic. Appointments may be made by calling 785.532.6544.

What are the specific tests for STDs?
    Each STD that can be tested for has its own test. The following STD screenings (testing) can be done at Lafene:
  • Gonorrhea
  • Chlamydia
  • Syphilis
  • HIV
  • Hepatitis B
  • Hepatitis C
  • Trichomoniasis

    • NOTE: There is not one "STD TEST" but individual tests for certain STDs as listed above. Not all STDs have a screening test.

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Why is it important to use a latex condom?

Latex is the least likely to allow microscopic organisms (sperm, bacteria, viruses) to pass through.
Condom Information —American Social Health Association (ASHA).

Do condoms prevent you from being infected by all sexually transmitted diseases?

"When used consistently and correctly, male latex condoms are effective in preventing the sexual transmission of HIV infection and can reduce the risk for other STDs (i.e., gonorrhea, chlamydia, and trichomonas). However, because condoms do not cover all exposed areas, they are likely to be more effective in preventing infections transmitted by fluids from mucosal surfaces (e.g., gonorrhea, chlamydia, trichomoniasis, and HIV) than in preventing those transmitted by skin-to-skin contact (e.g., herpes simplex virus [HSV], HPV, syphilis, and chancroid)." Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Clinical Prevention Guidelines, Sexually Transmitted Diseases Treatment Guidelines 2002.

What is a PAP test and does a PAP test include testing for STDs?

A PAP test is a simple and relatively painless test that obtains cells from a woman's cervix and a certified cytotechnologist evaluates the cells for abnormalities which may be indicative of cervical cancer. STD testing involves a variety of laboratory tests, depending on which disease is suspected, and is done to determine the presence of sexually transmitted disease.

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How do I schedule a S.H.A.P.E. Program?

S.H.A.P.E. Stands for Sexual Health Awareness Peer Educators. Check out the S.H.A.P.E. website for more information. Call Health Promotion at 785.532.6595 or e-mail shape@k-state.edu to request a presentation that meets your scheduling needs.

How can I become a peer educator in S.H.A.P.E.?

S.H.A.P.E. is a campus organization and has an open membership policy. Students may volunteer with the group. S.H.A.P.E. is also a course worth three University General Education (UGE) credits. In addition to becoming a peer educator, members gain leadership experience, improve public speaking skills, & inform peers about being safer. New classes begin each semester. Candidates are required to complete an application process. Interested students should contact the Health Promotion department at Lafene Health Center at 785.532.6595 or e-mail shape@k-state.edu.

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Tuberculosis and TB Testing
Why are International students from high-risk countries the only ones required to be tested for Tuberculosis (TB)?

According to the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control, active TB disease can be prevented if screening is provided for those at high risk. What makes a country "high-risk" are the numbers of cases of active TB disease in the population. Coughing is the primary means of transmission through germs in air droplets. It has the potential to be very contagious.

Testing for TB is required of several other groups. Annual TB testing is required for some U.S. health care workers and encouraged for all those persons working with at risk patients. All persons who spend or have spent more than 3 months in a high-risk country must also be tested. These groups, in addition to international students from high-risk countries, are at higher risk for TB than most K-State students.

Are there other American universities that require TB testing?

Most of the universities in the Big 12 Conference require TB testing of International Students from high-risk countries. These include: University of Colorado, Texas A & M, Baylor University, Iowa State University, University of Nebraska, University of Missouri, and Oklahoma State University. There is currently a nationwide trend to implement mandatory TB testing of international students from high-risk countries.

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If I have a positive test, does it jeopardize my ability to enroll in K-State? Will I have to return to my country?

You can enroll in courses at K-State even if your TB test is positive. If you have a positive test, you will be required to get a chest x-ray to determine if you have active TB disease. (Persons receiving chest x-rays will be assessed a charge, customarily much less than you would have to pay in the general community.) Prophylactic medication to prevent active TB disease will be provided free of charge if you choose to be treated.

Upon completion of required testing, you will be able to enroll in K-State courses.

What if I have active TB disease? Will I have to leave the United States?

Returning to your home country would be an option for you if you have active TB disease.

TB treatment is available here in Manhattan. The Riley County Health Department and your Lafene Health care provider would monitor your care according to guidelines established by the Centers for Disease Control.

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What are the symptoms of active TB disease?

Please see the TB Internet Resource List for detailed information regarding testing, treatment, and active TB disease.

May I submit a TB test result/report from my home country?

Testing must be done in the USA. Test results from outside the United States will not be accepted. If you are tested in the United States prior to arriving at Kansas State University, bring the test results to Lafene Health Center as soon as you arrive at K-State.

Does health insurance cover the cost of treatment for testing and active TB disease?

Yes, most health insurance will cover costs according to the coverage outlined in the policy. Percentage of coverage will most likely vary between insurance companies.

At Kansas State University—Lafene Health Center, the TB test and the chest x-ray are charged services. Call the Business Office for the current cost. Prophylactic drug therapy is freeprovided by Kansas Department of Health and Environment. Drugs required to treat active TB disease are free—provided by Kansas Department of Health and Environment. (If the TB test is positive and the chest x-ray is abnormal, the cost of differentiating TB from other diseases such as cancer can amount to many thousands of dollars.)

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