Monday, May 04, 2009
USI and Human Influenza A (H1N1)
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With reports of human cases of Influenza A (H1N1)-North American/Human flu (swine flu) confirmed in the United States, the University of Southern Indiana is closely monitoring the situation. There have been reported cases of influenza on campus, but there are no confirmed cases of Human Influenza A (H1N1) by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The safety and well being of all members of the USI community are of primary concern. A list of resources with up-to-date information about the Human Influenza A (H1N1) is available online on the USI Emergency Preparedness link at: http://www.usi.edu/emergency/. You are encouraged to visit the USI web site and familiarize yourself with the information about Human Influenza A (H1N1) and how to prevent the spread of this strain of influenza. Also, the University is taking extra precautions by providing anti-bacterial hand sanitizers in University restrooms and targeted disinfection of heavily trafficked areas. What You Can Do The CDC has prepared guidance on the everyday actions that each of us can take to stay healthy. Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people, so these simple measures can be of great help. Maintaining good health and practicing common sense hygiene habits are ways to reduce your risk of contracting the flu or spreading it to others. • Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. • Anti-viral tissues which kill 99 percent of cold and flu viruses are on the market. • Throw used tissue in the trash. • Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners also are effective. • Try to stay in good health by getting plenty of sleep, being physically active, managing your stress, and drinking plenty of fluids and eating nutritious foods. • If you are sick, stay home so you don't risk spreading the virus to other people. If you start experiencing flu symptoms, you can contact the Student Health Center on campus in the lower level of the Health Professions Center at 812/465-1250. Also, information about the swine flu is available online through a link on the USI Student Health Center web site: http://www.usi.edu/studenthealth/. USI will rely on the (CDC) and our local health department to keep students, faculty, and staff apprised of the latest developments and the impact on Vanderburgh County. Steve Woodall, director of Security, and the USI Student Health Center in conjunction with Barry Schonberger, dean of students, will work closely with these groups and continue to communicate critical information to the USI community. Kathy Funke News and Information Services 812/465-7050 or kfunke@usi.edu |
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