October 27, 2009

Georgia Southern University has taken active measures to monitor, diagnose, treat, and prevent the spread of the H1N1 influenza virus to minimize the impact to our campus community. The University continues to see cases of flu-like illnesses, as well as confirmed cases of influenza, and expects that trend to continue during the fall. We would like to take this opportunity to share the latest information with you, including our seasonal influenza vaccination program, and the latest information on the H1N1 influenza vaccination.

Georgia Southern University Health Services has been providing a series of campus-wide seasonal influenza vaccination clinics that began the first week of October. As of this date we have vaccinated well over 1,000 Georgia Southern students, faculty, staff and retirees. Listed below are the scheduled seasonal flu vaccination clinics for the remainder of October:

Note: Health Services will provide H1N1 flu vaccination clinics once the H1N1 flu vaccine becomes available. Based on the latest information from the CDC, the H1N1 vaccine will be free of charge and is expected to be available for high risk health groups (pregnant women, children 6 months to 4 years of age, and university students with serious chronic diseases) in late October, and for the general campus population the first two weeks of November, 2009. Information regarding H1N1 vaccine clinic dates and locations will be forthcoming.

Based on the most recent recommendations of the CDC for college and university environments focusing on the importance of isolation as the primary means for limiting the spread of the infection, Health Services is continuing the influenza telephone evaluation system (912-478-5641). This system allows Health Services staff to appropriately identify those students with H1N1 influenza symptoms who do not need to be seen so they can begin isolation procedures without the potential for further exposure. Students with a medical condition that puts them at increased risk of severe illness from flu, are concerned about their illness, or develop severe symptoms such as increased fever, shortness of breath, chest pain or pressure, or rapid breathing will be instructed to come to the Health Center to be seen and treated.

Those diagnosed with influenza are advised to stay in their room or apartment until they have been without fever for 24 hours (without the help of a fever reducer) and to not attend class or campus activities. These steps are being taken to reduce campus-wide exposure to the flu.

It is important to remember that at this point, H1N1 influenza does not cause symptoms or outcomes any worse than those of the seasonal influenza that we experience during the normal flu season (see: http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/key_facts.htm#flu). In those rare cases were students develop severe symptoms such as increased fever, shortness of breath, chest pain or pressure, or rapid breathing they should seek immediate medical attention.

No University facilities have been closed and campus activities are continuing as scheduled.  The University is working to make sure students who are diagnosed with influenza or influenza like illness can make up their class work and are not penalized for their absences. Arrangements have also been made with Eagle Dining Services for a roommate or close friend to use your Eagle ID Card/Meal Plan to obtain your meals while you are self-isolated in your dorm room or apartment room.   This includes students evaluated through the Health Services influenza telephone evaluation system, students seen at Health Services, and students seen by off-campus providers if the students inform Health Services or the Dean of Students Office.

Georgia Southern University began preparing for H1N1 influenza when the first cases were reported in Mexico last spring. The University follows Center for Disease Control (CDC) guidelines for cleaning and disinfecting common areas, has added signage to indicate hand washing stations, screened campers and visitors to campus during the summer months for influenza, and has distributed information about the prevention of H1N1 and what to do if you become ill. These proactive steps continue today.

Tips for Staying Healthy

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the   tissue in the trash after you use it.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol based (60% or higher) hand sanitizer/cleaners are also effective.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.

Any student who is ill is encouraged to contact Health Services (912-478-5641) or their private physician for diagnosis and treatment. For more about H1N1 symptoms, prevention, or what to do if you become ill, visit http://services.georgiasouthern.edu/health. This site is updated regularly as new information becomes available.

Additional information concerning the H1N1 influenza can be found at: 
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu
http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/guidance_homecare.htm
Flu information for students
Flu information for faculty
Flu information for parents
Flu information for staff
Information for RA's
Flu FAQ's for Parents and Students

Sincerely,
Brian DeLoach, MD, Chief of Medical Staff & Paul Ferguson, Director
Georgia Southern University Health Services