What is H1N1 Flu?
The 2009 novel H1N1 influenza A virus (previously referred to as "swine flu") is an influenze virus causing illness in people. This new virus was first detected in people in the United States in April 2009. This virus is spreading from person-to-person worldwide, probably much the same way that regular seasonal influenza viruses spread. On June 11, 2009, the World Health Organization (WHO) signaled that a pandemic was underway.
Why are people concerned with this particular strain?
Human infections with the new H1N1 virus are ongoing in the United States. Most people who have become ill with this new virus have recovered without requiring medical treatment. The Centers for Disease Control routinely works with states to collect, compile and analyze information about influenza, and has done the same for the new H1N1 virus since the beginning of the outbreak. This information is presented in a weekly report, called FluView.
How does novel H1N1 virus spread?
Spread of 2009 novel H1N1 influenza A virus is thought to occur in the same way that seasonal flu spreads. Flu viruses are spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing by people with influenza. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something--such as a surface or object--with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.
What are the signs and symptoms of this virus in people?
The symptoms of novel H1N1 flu virus in people include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headaches, chills and fatigue. A significant number of people who have been infected with this virus also have reported diarrhea and vomiting. Severe illnesses and death has occurred as a result of illness associated with this virus.
How do you catch H1N1 flu?
The current strain of H1N1 influenza circulating around the world is contagious and is believed to be spreading among humans in the same way that the seasonal flu spreads. Influenza is through to spread primarily person-to-person through coughing or sneezing by infected people, or when someone touches something with flu viruses on it and then touches their mouth or nose. Infected people may be able to spread the virus to others beginning one day (24 hours) before symptoms develop, and up to seven or more days after becoming sick. This means it is important to practice good hygiene at all times, even if you have not developed symptoms, in order to reduce the risk of spreading sickness.
What can I do to protect myself from getting sick?
It is important to practice good hygiene at all times, and there are everyday actions people can take to stay healthy:
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, and properly dispose of the tissue.
- If you do not have a tissue, sneeze or cough into the bend of your arm rather into your hands to reduce the spread of germs.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth to prevent the spread of germs.
- Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
What should I do if I develop flu-like symptoms?
If you develop flu-like symptoms:
- Call your parents. Refer them to the H1N1 flu information on the Carroll website.
- Notify your professors that you have the flu and will not be attending classes.
- Notify your CA OR the Student Life Office at 447-4415 that you have the flu and if you are going home for the duration of the illness.
- Self-isolate as you will be contagious for up to 7 days. The flu is expected to run 7-9 days. Do not return to campus, to classes or to work until 24 hours after your fever breaks. Rest, stay hydrated and find a friend or family member to monitor your symptoms.
- Go home (by private vehicle, not public transportation) if possible for the duration of the illness.
What should I do if my roommate develops flu-like symptoms?
As contagious at the H1N1 flu is reported to be, you should encourage your roommate to go home (by private vehicle, not public transportation) if possible. If your roommate is not able to go home, seek alternative housing for the duration of your roommate's illness. Find a friend who will let you stay in their room, house or apartment. Contact Community Living about temporary housing in an empty bed or empty room elsewhere on campus. It is important for you to relocate out of your room for the two weeks that your roommate is ill to decrease the chances of your roommate infecting you with the H1N1 flu.
Carroll College H1N1 Flu Emergency Response Team
Dr. Jim Hardwick, Vice President for Student Life
Dr. Paula McNutt, Senior Vice President for Academic Affairs
Tom McCarvel, Vice President for Community Relations
Nancy Lee, Executive Director for Advancement
Kathleen Trudnowski, RN, Director of Health Services
Bennett MacIntyre, Director of Community Living