2009 H1N1 (swine) Flu

Plans for widespread illness from influenza have been under way at the University for several years. University officials and experts are working closely with federal, state, and local public health offices.

Latest Update on Flu Prevention and Treatment at U.Va.

• The Elson Student Health Center Web site includes comprehensive information and links to American College Health Association and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention flu sites, as well as a frequently updated tally of the number of influenza-like illnesses reported among students since Aug. 22, 2009. There are links to messages to resident assistants, students, parents and faculty: http://web.virginia.edu/sthealth/H1n1/h1n1main.asp
• Since Oct. 19, the daily clinic visits due to ILI have increased by 30 per cent. It is unclear if this increased activity will sustain itself in the coming days.
• A second immunization clinic has been scheduled for all students and will include pre-entrance as well as seasonal flu vaccines: Thursday, Nov. 5, 2009, from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. in the Newcomb Hall Ballroom (H1N1 injectable vaccine likely will NOT be available.)
• Two other dates have been identified, depending on vaccine availability: Nov. 19 and 20, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Alumni Hall. Further information will be forthcoming.

PREVENTION

• Wash your hands, often and well, with soap and warm water for 15 to 20 seconds.
• Use alcohol-based hand sanitizer gel or wipes when there is no water.
• Cover your coughs and sneezes, then throw the tissue away and wash or sanitize your hands.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.
• Eat well, stay hydrated, rest, exercise and follow good-health guidelines.
• Vaccine for seasonal flu and H1N1 flu will be available later in the fall. Watch for announcements and check this page for schedules.

TREATMENT

• Know the flu symptoms – fever, headache, chills, body aches, fatigue, dry cough, sore throat, stuffy nose, occasionally nausea or diarrhea
• If you have these symptoms, stay home, rest and drink plenty of non-alcoholic fluids. Don’t smoke.
• Over-the-counter medicines such as acetaminophen and, for adults, aspirin may reduce aches and fever. Decongestants, cough medicines and a humidifier may also help.
• Call your doctor.

RECOVERY

• When you have been off fever-reducing medicine such as aspirin and fever-free for 24 hours, you may go back to your normal activities.