UST Announces Two-Day Health Break
The University of Santo Tomas (UST) has announced a two-day health break that will suspend all classes and office work from October 15 to October 16, 2025. The temporary closure applies to academic activities and university operations across all levels, giving students, faculty, and staff time to rest and recover.
In an advisory issued by the Office of the Secretary-General on Tuesday, the university confirmed the schedule and scope of the break. “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 states. This pause follows a series of health measures aimed at addressing seasonal illnesses and ensuring the wellbeing of the Tomasinos—UST’s student community, faculty, and staff.
Context: Health Advisory on Influenza and ILI
Alongside the break, UST issued a Health Advisory on Influenza and Influenza-like Illnesses (ILI) dated October 8, 2025. The advisory seeks to raise awareness about symptoms, risks, and preventive actions during the seasonal spread of flu and related infections. Influenza is described as a contagious viral infection affecting the nose, throat, and lungs, caused by influenza viruses, while ILI can be triggered by other pathogens such as the common cold, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and COVID-19.
Common symptoms highlighted in the advisory include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, headache, body aches, fatigue, and chills. The university emphasizes proactive steps to reduce transmission within the campus community.
Recommended Preventive Actions
To minimize illness risk and protect fellow Tomasinos, the advisory outlines practical measures that individuals should follow, particularly during periods of heightened flu activity:
- Wear a face mask when experiencing respiratory symptoms or when influenza activity is high on campus.
- Practice good hygiene, including covering the mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds or use an alcohol-based sanitizer.
- Regularly clean and disinfect frequently touched surfaces such as phones, keyboards, and doorknobs.
- Get vaccinated, as flu shots are among the most effective ways to reduce illness severity.
- Support immune health by maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated, exercising, getting adequate sleep, and taking vitamins as needed.
The university’s health communications stress that these actions help protect not only individuals but the broader campus community, particularly vulnerable groups such as the elderly and those with chronic conditions.
What This Means for Students and Staff
During the health break dates, students should not report to class locations, and employees are not expected to perform regular duties. The university advises students and staff to use the break period for rest, recovery, and preventive health practices. Affected students should follow their respective academic program guidelines or check with department heads for any make-up class arrangements or rescheduling of quizzes and exams, if applicable.
Universities often implement such breaks not only to provide physical rest but also to curb transmission and maintain continuity in education by temporarily reducing on-site activity during peak illness periods. UST’s decision aligns with public health best practices designed to safeguard the Tomasinos and the university community at large.
Looking Ahead
As October progresses, the UST administration will monitor health trends and provide updates as needed. Students and employees are encouraged to stay informed through official UST communications channels and to adhere to the health advisory as part of a collective responsibility toward campus wellbeing.
