Preparing an H1N1 Flu Response - Fall 2009

The Swedish Institute administration continues to monitor the possible challenges that this year's seasonal flu and H1N1 (swine) flu may present to our school community. Members of our administration have participated in national training events and discussion panels that have helped shape our current emergency policies. The following summary of information provided by the Centers for Disease Control and common media sources is meant to offer some guidance on ways to avoid getting sick and protecting others if you do get sick.

How the flu spreads

The influenza virus can be spread through direct contact (person to person), indirect contact (person to contaminated surface) and droplets. The virus enters the body either through breaks in the skin or through the membranes of the eyes, mouth and nose. So the first thing you can do is protect these areas:

• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or a hand sanitizer. Proper cleansing eliminates the presence of the virus.

• Hand to face contact accounts for about one-third of flu infection. Become aware of transferring a virus from your hands to your face. A study at the University of California videotaped college students as they worked at their laptops and found that over a three-hour period students touched their eyes, nose and lips 47 times, once every four minutes.

• If you sneeze or cough, cover your face with a tissue or the inside of your upper sleeve, not your hand. Throw the tissue away and then wash your hands or use a hand sanitizer.

• If you feel sick with flu-like symptoms stay at home for at least 24 hours after the fever has resolved.

• Consider getting a flu vaccination when it becomes available.

Flu Symptoms

Primary symptoms of an H1N1 infection include:

• Fever (a temperature of at least 100 degrees Fahrenheit/37.8 Celsius)

• Cough

• Sore throat

• Stuffy or runny nose

• Body aches

• Headaches

• Chills and fatigue

• Diarrhea and vomiting

Should a significant number of Swedish Institute community members become ill and be unable to attend or teach classes, the college will consult with both the New York State and New York City Health Departments before activating our emergency action plan, to be sure it is in line with the most up-to-date recommendations of the CDC and the Department of Health.

To find out more about H1N1 or the seasonal flu go to:

Our 2009 flu season video

Centers for Disease at www.cdc.gov/H1N1flu

The Department of Health and Human Services "Know What to Do About the Flu" at www.flu.gov

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