The Center for Disease Control has reported that human cases of swine influenza A (H1N1) virus infection have been identified in the United States and internationally. There have been no reported cases on campus or in the local community at this time.
University officials are monitoring the situation closely and will send updates out to the campus community as necessary. In the meantime, please take necessary precautions to avoid contacting or spreading the virus, which typically presents itself with regular flu-like symptoms. To avoid the spread of flu:
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze;
- Wash your hands frequently with soap and water or with an alcohol-based hand cleaner;
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth; and
- Avoid close contact with sick people, including kissing, sharing eating utensils, or drinking from the same container.
The CSU Stanislaus Student Health Center Web page provides a list of Frequently Asked Questions about Influenza A, H1N1 (Swine Flu). You may also visit http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu for extensive information about swine flu.
Influenza A, H1N1 (Swine Flu) Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is Influenza A, H1N1 (Swine flu)?
A: Influenza A, H1N1 (initially called Swine Flu) is a new flu virus causing a limited number of respiratory infections in multiple areas around the state, country and world. The virus is thought to be of swine origin. The symptoms are similar to seasonal influenza- fever, aches, cough, sore throat, and tiredness. Some people may also have gastrointestinal symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea.
Q: Is Influenza A, H1N1 a serious problem?
A: Equip yourself with information, but don’t panic. The initial information available indicates that most people diagnosed with Influenza A, H1N1 in the USA have had a fairly mild flu illness, though the virus is causing more severe illness in Mexico. The situation could change rapidly with the outbreak diminishing or worsening. More information is going to be available over the next few days and weeks.
Q: Where can I find out more about Influenza A, H1N1?
A: Additional information will be available through county and state public health departments as the situation develops. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) websites listed below give a good overview of the situation. More local information is available at the state and county websites linked below.
http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/
http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/swineflu_you.htm
http://www.cdph.ca.gov/HealthInfo/discond/Pages/SwineInfluenza.aspx
Q: What precautions should I take in regards to Influenza A, H1N1?
A: The same precautions to reduce the risks from colds or seasonal flu will also help reduce the risk from Influenza A, H1N1. These steps are as follows:
- Wash your hands with soap and water, or use hand sanitizer, especially before eating or touching your face.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or face to minimize catching or spreading germs.
- Avoid close contact with sick people when possible.
- Cover your cough- cough or sneeze into a tissue, then throw it away and clean your hands.
- Try to stay well rested. Maintain good nutrition and hydration.
- If you do become ill, staying home from work or school will help avoid spreading the virus.
Q: What is the University doing in response to Influenza A, H1N1?
A: As of April 30, Influenza A, H1N1 is not a current problem on campus. The University is monitoring information from local, state, and federal sources in regards to responding to Influenza A, H1N1. The University and the CSU system have developed plans to respond to infectious disease outbreaks such as influenza when needed. Updates will be sent out to the campus community as more information becomes available.
Q: Can I get Influenza A, H1N1 from eating pork?
A: No. Properly handled cooked pork and pork products are not sources of Influenza A, H1N1.