Influenza Information

Prevention

Since flu shots administered in fall 2008/winter 2009 will not protect against H1N1 flu, it is important to practice other behaviors that can reduce your chances of becoming ill.

• WASH YOUR HANDS FREQUENTLY WITH SOAP AND WATER, or carry a small-size, alcohol-based hand sanitizer with you and use it often. You can purchase alcohol-based hand sanitizer at the Student Health Services' Pharmacy or any local pharmacy or grocery store.
• KEEP YOUR HANDS AWAY FROM YOUR MOUTH, NOSE AND EYES.
• DON'T EAT, DRINK OR SMOKE AFTER OTHERS.
• COUGH OR SNEEZE INTO YOUR UPPER SLEEVE SO THAT VIRUSES ARE TRAPPED IN THE FABRIC OF YOUR CLOTHING AND SO THAT YOU DO NOT CONTAMINATE YOUR HANDS. If you cough into a tissue, throw it in a wastebasket immediately. Don't lay it on a surface that others might touch. Wash or sanitize your hands as soon as possible.
• AVOID CLOSE CONTACT WITH PEOPLE WHO ARE SICK, AND STAY HOME WHEN YOU ARE ILL.
• Visit a doctor if you exhibit flu-like symptoms.
• Stay home or at your place of residence if you are sick for at least 24 hours after you no longer have a fever (100 degrees Fahrenheit or 38 degrees Celsius) or signs of a fever (have chills, feel very warm, have a flushed appearance, or are sweating). This should be determined without the use of fever-reducing medications (any medicine that contains ibuprofen or acetaminophen).
• Talk to your health care provider to find out if you should be vaccinated for seasonal flu and/or H1N1 flu.

Follow these steps now to prepare for the flu during the 2009-2010 flu season:

• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Cover coughs or sneezes using your elbow or shoulder instead of your hands when a tissue is not available.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
• Frequently clean your living quarters. If you live together with other students, you should frequently clean commonly-used surfaces such as doorknobs, refrigerator handles, remote controls, computer keyboards, countertops, faucet handles, and bathroom areas.
• Plan to monitor your health by checking for fever and other symptoms of flu.
• Talk with your health care provider or contact the Student Health Center if you are at higher risk for complications from flu.
• Update emergency contact lists.
• Learn more about the university's pandemic response plan (PDF).