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Information for the Wake Forest University Community Concerning H1N1 Pandemic Influenza An outbreak of a H1N1 (swine-related) influenza that is infecting humans by person-to-person spread has been reported worldwide. This particular virus spreads readily by direct contact with nasal mucus from an infected person or by inhaling droplets coughed or sneezed into the air. People can minimize the chances of contracting H1N1 influenza by avoiding other individuals who have been diagnosed with this type of flu, by frequently washing their hands with soap and water or using a hand sanitizer, and by keeping their hands away from their faces. Even though some severe illnesses and deaths from novel H1N1 flu have been reported, most cases have been similar to seasonal flu and have not resulted in severe illness. In addition, most cases have occurred in children and younger adults. Wake Forest University has been preparing for the possibility of a pandemic influenza for the past three and a half years. The following measures are being implemented as a result of this planning: 1. Information concerning the pandemic H1N1 influenza will be provided to the campus community including students. This includes information located on the Student Health Service web site (www.wfu.edu/shs), information disseminated by the peer (student) health educators and the staff of Residence Life and Housing, and information distributed through campus-wide e-mails. Find out more about the response. 2. The information will include preventative messages about minimizing the risk of contracting the H1N1 virus such as frequent hand washing or use of hand sanitizers, "cover your cough" recommendations, and social isolation (limiting contact with individuals diagnosed with H1N1 influenza). In addition, information will be provided about the signs and symptoms of H1N1 influenza, self-care recommendations, and treatment options for individuals who contract this virus. 3. Individuals who become ill as a result of H1N1 influenza will be asked to isolate themselves in their residence halls, apartments, or homes until their symptoms have resolved. The faculty has been reminded to instruct students with influenza-like symptoms to refrain from attending class until recovered. Faculty members have prepared alternative teaching plans in case classroom instruction has to be curtailed because of large numbers of cases. 4. The Student Health Service staff will continue to monitor recommendations from the CDC, the Forsyth County Health Department, and the Division of Infectious Diseases at the Wake Forest University/Baptist Medical Center concerning the management of individuals with influenza-like symptoms. It is anticipated that adequate supplies of antiviral medications (such as Tamiflu) will be available to treat students who have health conditions that place them at higher risk of complications from this illness. 5. Wake Forest University, in cooperation with the Forsyth County Health Department, will be a distribution site for the H1N1 influenza vaccine later in the fall. A vaccine clinic will be announced (probably in late October or early November) when this vaccine becomes available. Traditional age college students are considered a "high priority" group for receiving this vaccine. Important Links |
