Flu update

Dear Students, Faculty and Staff:

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the World Health Organizations (WHO) continue to issue daily updates regarding the outbreak of H1N1 virus, which has been dubbed “swine flu.” As of May 4, North Carolina has one confirmed case and a few probable cases; none of these cases are in Alamance County.

The WHO and the CDC continue to recommend precautionary measures, especially when traveling to areas with suspected or confirmed cases of the flu. According to the CDC Web site, swine flu symptoms are similar to regular strains of flu, including fever, lethargy, lack of appetite and coughing. Some people with H1N1 flu also have reported runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. For complete information about H1N1 flu, consult the CDC Web site at http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/

Anyone who presents with flu-like symptoms should seek medical attention immediately. Students, faculty and staff can receive evaluation and treatment at the Ellington Health and Counseling Center during normal business hours, at Alamance Regional Health Center (ARMC) or their private physician. Please also note that as a precautionary measure, anyone who comes to the Ellington Center and has a fever or presents with other flu-like symptoms will be required to wear a surgical-type mask in the waiting room.

The University also has an extensive pandemic flu preparedness and response plan that was developed in accordance with state and national guidelines. University departments continue to review the plan and to monitor the situation, and will respond as necessary. At this point we expect the semester, including 2009 Commencement exercises, will proceed as usual.

The CDC recommends the following measures to reduce the spread of viruses, including flu viruses (They are good tips to use EVERY day to keep you and others healthier!)

• Avoid close contact.
  Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.
• Stay home when you are sick.
  If possible, stay home from work, school, and errands when you are sick. You will help prevent others from catching your illness. Seek medical attention and proper documentation from health providers for class or work absences.
• Cover your mouth and nose.
  Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick.
• Clean your hands.
  Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs. Use hand sanitizer.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
  Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth.
• Practice other good health habits.
  Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food.

We expect that this will be the last community update unless conditions change. State Health officials have advised that they will discontinue daily updates with the county health departments within the next few days. Questions about medical concerns related to the H1N1 flu may be directed to Kitty Parrish, Director of Health Services or Dr. Jim Hawkins, University Physician at ext. 7230. Please consult E-Net about updates regarding the university’s emergency response plan.

Sincerely,

Jana Lynn Patterson
Assistant Vice President for Student Life and Associate Dean of Students