I am sure you have seen recent media attention focused on the H1N1 influenza virus. I am writing to assure you that we are focused on the issue, actively preparing for flu season and closely monitoring directives from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Ohio Department of Health. Muskingum has a pandemic flu preparedness committee comprised of individuals from across campus, and a plan to proactively deal with and monitor any cases of influenza that appear on campus.
The most current information on the H1N1 virus suggests that young adults are among the population that is more likely to contract the virus, and “at-risk” students with pre-existing conditions may be especially vulnerable. Since the H1N1 shot will not be available until later this fall, I cannot emphasize enough the importance of basic prevention. We are regularly communicating with students, faculty, and staff, and your help in reinforcing these messages can make a real difference at Muskingum.
Wash or sanitize your hands SEVERAL times per day.
Get enough rest.
Don’t share drinks or food.
Cough and sneeze into your sleeve, not your hands.
When sick, call the health center or your physician, notify your professors, students or staff and isolate yourself.
While sick, go out only when needed to avoid contact with others who may not be ill.
Students who have flu-like symptoms should call the campus Wellness Center for an appointment and evaluation of their symptoms. It is anticipated that most students who become ill with this influenza-like virus will be able to manage their symptoms with over-the-counter medications. We believe many students who are diagnosed with the virus will go home during their illness. As a result, we are asking them to inform our Student Life Office so we are aware if they are not on campus. If they choose to stay on campus they will be expected to remain in “social isolation” and not to return to classes or co-curricular activities until they are without a fever for 24 hours, without the use of acetaminophen or ibuprofen.
Our faculty members are aware of our H1N1 preparedness strategies, and will likely have conversations with their classes about how to make up missed work and stay up-to-date with coursework. We encourage students to talk with his or her professors early in the semester—before any illness occurs—about the requirements of each class and the procedures for missed classes.
This year, there are two types of flu shots, one for the seasonal influenza, available on campus at the beginning of October and one specifically for the H1N1 virus that the CDC expects to make available later this fall. The H1N1 flu shots will be available on campus and more information will be forthcoming as we learn more about release dates and availability.
As always, Muskingum’s first priority is the safety, health and well-being of our community. We are actively preparing for this flu season and doing everything we can to help everyone stay healthy. Thank you for partnering with us in this important effort.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the Director of our Wellness Center, Ms. Susan Fracker at (740) 826-8150 or myself at (740) 826-8080.
Sincerely,
Janet Heeter Bass
Vice President for Student Affairs/Dean of Students
Muskingum University
