H1N1 Influenza Preparation

Avoiding the Flu

September 1, 2009

To: University Community
From: Nancy Pontes, DNSc., FNP-BC, APN
Assistant Vice President for Health and Wellness,
Director of Student Health Services

I write to update you about Rowan’s planning for the upcoming flu season given the spread of Novel H1N1 pandemic influenza throughout the world. Although certain individuals can be at risk for severe complications from this virus, most cases are mild and, at this point, no more severe than seasonal flu. The biggest difference between the strains is that the age groups affected with H1N1 are generally younger. Since the flu severity can change, we will continue to work closely with local and state experts and the Center for Disease Control to monitor flu conditions and make decisions about the best steps to take concerning our institution. We will keep you updated with new information as it becomes available to us.

For now, we ask that you visit our “Flu Information” website at www.rowan.edu/flu for specifics on policies and procedures recently adopted to lessen the disruption widespread illness will have on classes and work responsibilities. There are specific guidelines for students and employees to follow if they or you become ill.

We also ask that you review the following ways you can help to reduce the spread of flu:

• Practice good hand hygiene by washing your hands with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing. Alcohol-based hand cleaners also are effective.
• Practice respiratory etiquette by covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth; germs are spread this way.
• Stay home if you have flu or flu-like illness for at least 24 hours after you no longer have a fever (100 degrees Fahrenheit). This should be determined without the use of fever-reducing medications. Most cases of flu do not require medical intervention, but do not go to class or work while ill.
• Talk with your health care provider about whether you should be vaccinated for seasonal flu. If you are at higher risk for flu complications from 2009 H1N1 flu, you should also consider getting the H1N1 vaccine when it becomes available. People at higher risk for 2009 H1N1 flu complications include pregnant women and people with chronic medical conditions (such as asthma, heart disease, or diabetes). For more information, see www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/vaccination/acip.htm.

We will notify you by Rowan Daily Mail of any additional changes to our institution’s strategy to prevent the spread of flu on our campus. For the most up-to-date information on flu, visit www.flu.gov. Thank you for partnering with the Health Center in having a safe and healthy year!

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