We have had no diagnosed cases of the H1N1 flu at Saint Mary's College. If the time comes that we need to alert the campus to the H1N1 flu, we will use the emergency notification system on campus.
The Indiana State Department of health has confirmed cases of H1N1 influenza in Indiana. These cases are similar to seasonal flu but medical and government agencies are monitoring this new flu closely for possible changes. We are regularly reviewing the CDC (Centers for Disease Control), Indiana Department of Health and ACHA (American College Health Association) web sites for updates and recommendations.
Symptoms of H1N1 flu are similar to those of seasonal influenza. These include fever, cough, body aches, sore throat, runny nose or stuffy nose, headache, chills, fatigue, and sometimes vomiting and diarrhea. If you have symptoms that are you are concerned about, Saint Mary's students are encouraged to call for an appointment at the Women's Health Center (574-284-4805).
There is no vaccine currently available to protect against this new H1N1 flu. However, there are precautions that can be taken that will help prevent the spread of germs that cause respiratory illnesses like influenza:
• Wash your hands regularly.
• Use alcohol-based hand sanitizers
• Cover your mouth when you cough and sneeze.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth
• Drink plenty of water.
• Eat a balanced diet.
• Get plenty of rest and sleep.
Students are encouraged to have a "flu kit" on hand to monitor and manage possible influenza:
• Thermometer
• Acetaminophen (Tylenol), Ibuprofen (Advil)
• Decongestant
• Lozenges
• Cough syrup
• Tissues
• Hand sanitizers
• Supply of sports drinks, herbal tea and soups
RELATED LINKS:
Further information from the CDC
