Academic Planning Relative to H1N1 Flu
Newsletter from Albemarle Regional Health Services concerning H1N1 (Posted 9-30-09)
Flu Tip of the Week - September 9, 2009
Pandemic H1N1 Influenza is a contagious respiratory illness caused by a new strain of influenza virus. In March and April 2009, the first confirmed cases of human infection were documented in a number of states, as well as other countries.
You cannot catch H1N1 flu by eating pork or pork products.
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Flu Tip of the Week - September 16, 2009
As we launch into the Fall 2009 semester, we know that the college may face high levels of H1N1 flu (Swine flu) this year. In fact, the number of cases in the area is rising. Characteristically, this flu lasts 3-5 days but people usually recover from it completely. The H1N1 flu virus spreads easily when people live in close quarters or share spaces like libraries and classrooms. Although you can get H1N1 only once, because symptoms overlap with seasonal influenza, students, faculty, and staff are being asked to self-isolate on the basis of symptoms and not to wait for a diagnosis.
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Flu Tip of the Week - September 23, 2009
H1N1 Flu Symptoms Include: Fever, coughing, runny/stuffy nose, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills, fatigue, nausea and/or diarrhea. If you have any of these symptoms, please stay home and contact your local health care provider or local health department.
Local Health Department Contact Information:
Camden County: 252-338-4460
Chowan County: 252-482-6003
Currituck County: 252-232-2271
Dare County: 252-475-5003
Gates County: 252-357-1380
Pasquotank County: 252-338-4400
Perquimans County: 252-426-2100
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Flu Tip of the Week - September 30, 2009
What do I need to know and do?
People who have H1N1 flu may be able to infect others even before symptoms develop and up to seven or more days after becoming sick. That means you may be able to pass the flu to someone before you know you are stick, as well as while you are sick.
It is expected that most people will recover without needing medical care. If you have severe illness or you are at high risk for flu complications, seek medical care. Your health care provider will determine the best course of action.
Antiviral drugs can be given to treat those who become severely ill with influenza. These antiviral drugs are prescription medicines (pills, liquid, or an inhaler) that fight against influenza viruses, including the H1N1 flu virus. These medicines must be prescribed by a health care professional.
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Flu Tip of the Week - October 7, 2009
Do you feel sick? STOP!
You may have the flu if you have fever or chills AND a cough or sore throat. You may also have a runny nose, body aches, a headache, tiredness, diarrhea, or vomiting.
If you think you have the flu, stay home or in your residence, except to get medical care.
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Flu Tip of the Week - October 14, 2009
If you are sick with the flu, below are some tips on how to take care of yourself and to keep others healthy.
Know the signs and symptoms of flu. Symptoms of flu include fever or chills and cough or sore throat. In addition, symptoms of flu can include runny nose, body aches, headache, tiredness, diarrhea, or vomiting.
· Stay home or at your place of residence if you are sick for at least 24 hours after there is no longer 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). Staying away from others while sick can prevent others from getting sick too. Ask a roommate or friend to check up on you and to bring you food and supplies if needed.
· Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing.
· Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective if soap and water are not available.
· Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs spread this way.
· Sick people should stay at home or in their residence, except to go to the health care provider’s office.
· Stay in a separate room and avoid contact with others. If someone is caring for you, wear a mask, if available and tolerable, when they are in the room.
· Drink plenty of clear fluids (such as water, broth, sports drinks, and electrolyte beverages for infants) to keep from becoming dehydrated.
· Contact your health care provider or institution’s health services if you are at higher risk for complications from flu for treatment. People at higher risk for flu complications include children under the age of 5 years, pregnant women, people of any age who have chronic medical conditions (such as asthma, diabetes, or heart disease), and people age 65 years and older.
· Contact a healthcare provider right away if you are having difficulty breathing or are getting worse.
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Flu Tip of the Week - October 21, 2009
H1N1 Flu Symptoms Include:
Fever, coughing, runny/stuffy nose, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills, fatigue, nausea and/or
diarrhea. If you have any of these symptoms, please stay home and contact your local health care provider or local health department.
Local Health Department Contact Information:
Camden County: 252-338-4460
Chowan County: 252-482-6003
Currituck County: 252-232-2271
Dare County: 252-475-5003
Gates County: 252-357-1380
Pasquotank County: 252-338-4400
Perquimans County: 252-426-2100
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Flu Tip of the Week - October 28, 2009
Vaccine Information:
There will be two different vaccines for the flu this year. The first is the seasonal flu vaccine that is available each year. You are encouraged to go ahead and get your seasonal flu vaccine now. This vaccine should be available at your local health department by the middle to end of September. Please note, the seasonal flu vaccine will not protect you against the H1N1 flu. You will be charged for this vaccine as you have been in years past.
The second vaccine is specifically for the H1N1 flu which will be given in two separate injections, 21 days apart for certain populations. This vaccine is now available but contact your local health department for availability. Because this is a federally purchased vaccine, this will be given free of charge.
Please contact your local health department directly to find out more information about both vaccines.
Local Health Department Contact Information:
Camden County: 252-338-4460
Chowan County: 252-482-6003
Currituck County: 252-232-2271
Dare County: 252-475-5003
Gates County: 252-357-1380
Pasquotank County: 252-338-4400
Perquimans County: 252-426-2100
