GENERAL INFORMATION ON THE H1N1 VIRUS

 

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What is H1N1 Influenza (Swine Flu)?

According to the CDC, Novel influenza A (H1N1) is a new flu virus of swine origin that was first detected in April, 2009. The virus is infecting people and is spreading from person-to-person, and has sparked a growing outbreak of illness in the United States with an increasing number of cases being reported internationally as well.

What are the signs and symptoms of the H1N1 virus in people?

The symptoms of H1N1 flu virus in people are similar to the symptoms of seasonal flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. A significant number of people who have been infected with this virus also have reported diarrhea and vomiting. Also, like seasonal flu, severe illnesses and death have occurred as a result of illness associated with the virus.

How long can an infected person spread this virus to others?

At the current time, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) believe that this virus has the same properties in terms of spread as seasonal flu viruses. With seasonal flu, studies have shown that people may be contagious from one day before they develop symptoms to up to 7 days after they get sick. Children, especially younger children, might potentially be contagious for longer periods. We are monitoring the CDC studies to learn more and will provide more information as it becomes available.

What steps can I take to protect myself from the virus?

• Practice good hand hygiene by washing your hands often with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. If you don't have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your elbow or shoulder, not into your hands.
• 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).
• Contact a health care provider or Student Health Services if your symptoms are getting worse.
• If you are having difficulty breathing and need to go to the hospital, contact University Police at 911 from campus phones or 632-3333 from non-campus phones.
• Staying away from others while sick can prevent others from getting sick too. Ask a roommate, friend, or family member to check up on you and to bring you food and supplies if needed.
• Frequently clean your living quarters. If you live together with other students, you should frequently clean surfaces and items that are more likely to have frequent hand contact such as desks, doorknobs, refrigerator handles, remote controls, computer keyboards, countertops, faucet handles, and bathroom areas with cleaning agents or alcohol-based wipes.