H1N1 Influenza (Swine Flu)

         There is a distinct possibility of an influenza epidemic this year. I do not give medical advice. However, if you believe that you have the flu and you go to work or come to school, you bear the responsibility for those illnesses that might occur because of your passing on the virus. Some percentage of the population may die from the H1N1 flu bug. As such, the prudent thing to do is to go to the health clinic or your physician***, and stay home until you no longer have symptoms as noted below.

          If you develop the flu and you have a note from your physician/health clinic, it will not be counted against you in attendance. You will be responsible for making up work/exams missed.

Kevin Coulson

The information below comes from NYU’s website.

Due to the continued circulation of H1N1 influenza, particularly among young people, it is important to remember to be vigilant about personal hygiene. To reduce the risk of getting sick, we urge everyone to take the following steps:

    * Cover your mouth when you cough, either with your sleeve or a tissue or handkerchief.

* Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective. (Nota bene: Purell or GermX)

    * Try to avoid close contact with sick people.

    * If you are sick with fever and either a cough or sore throat, STAY HOME OR IN YOUR ROOM AT THE RESIDENCE HALL for at least 24 hours after all of your symptoms are gone.

    * Stay away from clinics and hospitals unless you have severe symptoms, and *** notify your doctor or the clinic before you arrive, or as soon as you arrive, that you have a fever and respiratory symptoms so that you can be appropriately isolated from others.

If you are ill, DO NOT go to class or to work. You should stay home or in your room at the residence hall and avoid contact with other people as much as possible to keep from spreading your illness to others. You should NOT return to work or attend class until all your symptoms have resolved and you have been well for a full day (24 hours). This also applies if you plan to use public transportation to return home or travel.

If you experience any of the following warning signs:

    * Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath

    * Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen

    * Persistent vomiting

    * Sudden dizziness

    * Confusion

    * Flu-like symptoms improve, but then return with fever and worse cough

...seek emergency medical care by calling 911

SOURCE: http://www.nyu.edu/shc/about/news-swineflu.html accessed 8/18/2009