The U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the World Health organizations have issued advisories and emergency notifications regarding confirmed and suspected cases of the swine flu. Students, faculty and staff should read this note for steps Elon is taking as part of its flu pandemic preparedness plan.
Dear Students, Faculty and Staff:
The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the World Health organizations have issued advisories and emergency notifications regarding confirmed and suspected cases of the swine flu in several countries including Mexico, Canada, Spain, and a few parts of the United States (California, Kansas, Texas, Ohio and New York).
Health Services and the Office of Student Development will continue to monitor the situation and participate in surveillance and monitoring procedures at the local, state and national levels. The best information we have at this time is that there is no immediate risk to our community and there is no cause for alarm; however, we should all take precautionary measures to best assure our own health and the health of those around us. At this point, the United States Government has not issued any travel restrictions, although the University community is advised to exercise caution when traveling, especially to any of the areas with suspected or confirmed cases.
Anyone who presents with flu-like symptoms should seek medical attention immediately. According to the CDC web-site, the symptoms of swine flu in people are expected to be similar to the symptoms of regular human seasonal influenza <http://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/disease/symptoms.htm> and include fever, lethargy, lack of appetite and coughing. Some people with swine flu also have reported runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
Students, faculty and staff can receive evaluation and treatment at the Ellington Center during normal business hours or at Alamance Regional Health Center (ARMC) or their private physician. Please also note that as a precautionary measure, anyone who comes to the Ellington Health and Counseling Center and has a fever or presents with other flu-like symptoms will be required to wear a surgical-type mask. We will also forward any flu-test results to the local and state health authorities for additional evaluation and monitoring.
For more information about the swine flu advisories, please consult the CDC web-site at http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/
The University also has a thorough flu pandemic preparedness and response plan that has been developed in accordance with state and national guidelines. While we do not anticipate having to initiate the plan, we do want you to know that we are prepared for escalated risks of exposure to the campus community and will respond if conditions warrant. The Ellington Center Staff works routinely with local, state and national authorities who monitor these situations and we will be working to stay current on any new developments in this situation.
The CDC recommends the following measures to reduce the spread of viruses, including flu viruses (They are good tips to use EVERY day to keep you and others healthier!)
- Avoid close contact.
Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too. - Stay home when you are sick.
If possible, stay home from work, school, and errands when you are sick. You will help prevent others from catching your illness. Seek medical attention and proper documentation from health providers for class or work absences. - Cover your mouth and nose.
Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick. - Clean your hands.
Washing your hands often will help protect you from germs. Use hand sanitizer. - Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose, or mouth. - Practice other good health habits.
Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids, and eat nutritious food.
Thank you for your attention. Questions about medical concerns related to the swine flu may be directed to Kitty Parrish, Director of Health Services or Dr. Jim Hawkins, University Physician at ext. 7230. Please consult E-Net about updates regarding the University’s Emergency Response plan.
Warm Regards,
Jana Lynn Patterson
Assistant Vice President for Student Life and Associate Dean of Students