MINNEAPOLIS — As students return from winter break this week, officials at the University of Minnesota say those who are experiencing flu symptoms should stay home.

Due to a high number of flu cases, officials have suspended an attendance policy that requires a doctor’s note if a student is absent on the first day.

Officials told students by email that those who miss the first day won’t have to show a note, but must email instructors so they don’t get dropped from class.

Officials said students should stay home until they are free of flu symptoms for at least 24 hours.

The policy was also suspended in 2009 after the H1N1 outbreak.

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