When classes resume later this week at the University of Minnesota, students who have the flu or even experience flu symptoms are being asked to stay home.

The Minnesota Daily reports that the University is suspending its policy on first-day class attendance and required doctor’s notes. In an email, University officials wrote that students will not have to show doctor's notes for absences during the first week of classes, as the attendance policy requires. The large number of influenza cases led the university to make the change.

Officials say students should stay home until they are free of flu symptoms for at least 24 hours. Boynton Health Services will hold clinics for free flu shots during the first week of classes.

The most recent figures show there have been 60 flu-related deaths in Minnesota this season.