Important information regarding the flu

The World Health Organization (WHO) on June 11, 2009 declared that a global pandemic of H1N1 influenza (Swine flu) is underway. A flu pandemic occurs when a new influenza “A” virus emerges for which there is little or no immunity in the human population. The virus causes serious illness – and even death – and spreads easily from person-to-person worldwide.

To underscore the concern about the potential spread of the H1N1 influenza virus (Swine flu), the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) noted that while flu activity is currently below epidemic levels, it is unusually high for this time of year. This raises concerns that there could be a widespread outbreak of flu as we approach winter.

Recommendations from the CDC:

• Promote self-isolation at home by students and staff. If you are experiencing flu-like symptoms, including fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, headaches, body aches, chills and fatigue, stay home.
• Encourage high-risk students and staff to get early treatment and vaccination.
• Discourage attendance at college events (including classes) by ill persons (those with Influenza Like Illness (IFI)
• Promote hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette. (Wash your hands with soap and cover your face with a tissue when you sneeze. If you don’t have a tissue, sneeze onto your upper arm to avoid spreading germs with your hands.)
• Routine cleaning. Clean frequently touched surfaces including computer keyboards.
• Considerations for specific student populations. High-risk groups such as pregnant women and those with asthma should consider vaccination.

Self-Isolation Period

The CDC recommends that people extend their self-isolation for 24 hours beyond the end of fever. Data shows the duration of fever at 2-4 days, thus the isolation period should be 3-5 days. The most likely period of transmitting the flu to another person within households is within the first 5 days of symptom onset. However, people can still remain contagious after the fever breaks (i.e. people walking around and coughing over everything.) Furthermore, people are encouraged to stay home until they feel better to avoid secondary complications.

There will be 42 million doses of H1N1 vaccine available by mid-October, with the first vaccine available by the end of September, according to the CDC. There should be 73 million doses by the end of October. Colleges should coordinate vaccination programs with state and local health departments.

If the severity of the flu outbreak were to dramatically increase, colleges may want to consider permitting high-risk students and staff to stay home; extend self-isolation period, increase social distances; consider suspending or changing public events; consider suspending classes (reactive/preemptive).

Sources:
www.cdc.gov
www.flu.gov