Environmental Allergies/Hay Fever Management

Medications

• If you have an allergy to a medication, make sure that information has been provided to the Vaden Health Center by completion of your entrance medical form health history.
• If you take prescription medications for your allergies, make sure to consult your allergist or primary care physician prior to leaving home. Bring an adequate supply and your prescription information.
• If you use an Epi-pen, make sure you bring a supply with you.
• Make sure to familiarize yourself with the list of the over the counter medications that work for your allergies.
• A Walgreens Pharmacy is located at Vaden Health Center.  You may use this pharmacy for your medications.  In addition, there are several other pharmacies located within 1 mile of campus. 
• Never take anyone else’s medication.
• You should consider getting a flu shot when available in the Fall. Vaden offers the flu vaccine at no charge for registered students.

Environment

• Avoid triggers by making changes to your dorm room/apartment. You may need to work with your roommate on some of these alterations
• Minimize exposure to irritants including: strong odors, pets, cigarette smoke, cleaning solutions, lotions, perfumes, and cosmetics.
• Keep windows closed or minimize time outdoors during high pollen season and to avoid pollution.
• If mites are a problem for you, consider “mite-proof” bedding covers and laundry detergent that kills mites
• If you use a hepa-filter or dehumidifier, plan on bringing it to campus.
• Keep your dorm environment clean from dust, mold, mites, etc.
• Keep pets out of your dorm/apartment
• If you need specific housing accommodations due to the severity of your allergies, you may contact The Office of Accessible Education (OAE). Be mindful of the documentation that will be needed. This is addressed on the website.

Insurance

• If you are not planning to sign up for Cardinal Care Insurance, you should check to make sure your current insurance covers care at Stanford Health Care and Stanford Specialty Clinics.  If it does not, we strongly encourage you to enroll in Cardinal Care. This is especially important for students with pre-existing medical conditions.
• Undergraduate students on full financial aid should check with the Financial Aid Office at 888.326.3773 regarding coverage of the cost of Cardinal Care prior to making a decision to waive coverage.