UST declares two-day health break from Oct. 15–16, 2025

The University of Santo Tomas (UST) has announced a two-day health break from October 15 to 16, 2025, suspending all classes and office work across all levels to give students, faculty, and staff time to rest and recover.

In an advisory released by the Office of the Secretary-General on Tuesday, the university said the suspension covers both academic and administrative operations.

“The University will observe a two-day Health Break from October 15–16, 2025 (Wednesday to Thursday). During this period, there will be no classes in all levels and office work in the University,” the memo read.

In a memorandum dated October 8, 2025, the University of Santo Tomas' (UST) Office of the Secretary-General released a Health Advisory on Influenza and Influenza-like Illnesses (ILI) to raise awareness on symptoms, risks, and preventive actions against the seasonal spread of flu and related infections.

The advisory describes influenza as a contagious viral infection of the nose, throat, and lungs caused by influenza viruses, while ILI can also be triggered by other pathogens such as the common cold, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and COVID-19.

Common symptoms include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headache, body pain, fatigue, and chills.

To prevent infection, Thomasians are strongly encouraged to:

• Wear a face mask when experiencing respiratory symptoms;
• Practice good hygiene by covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing;
• Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use alcohol-based sanitizer;
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces such as phones, keyboards, and doorknobs;
• Get vaccinated, as flu shots are the most effective way to reduce illness severity; and
• Strengthen the immune system by eating a balanced diet, staying hydrated, exercising, getting sufficient sleep, and taking vitamins as needed.

Students and staff who experience flu-like symptoms are encouraged to seek medical consultation either online through the ThOMedSS platform (8:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. Monday to Saturday) or onsite at the UST Health Service (7:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m. Monday to Saturday). —Sherylin Untalan/KG, GMA Integrated News