H1N1 Flu Information

Information and Resources on the H1N1 Flu Virus

As has been widely reported in the media, individuals ages 5-24, and especially college students, are a high risk group for the H1N1 flu virus. At Union College, we are working hard to stay on top of all information related to this virus and taking all available steps to safeguard the health and well-being of our students. Throughout the academic year, this page will be the primary resource for Union students, their families and the campus community about the H1N1 flu virus and Union's response.

The College also has an Emergency Management Team in place which has identified steps that should be taken in the event of a flu outbreak, and such steps have already been built into Union's detailed Emergency Preparedness Plan. One of these steps is to ask students who are experiencing flu-like symptoms consistent with the H1N1 virus to leave campus and return home to their families.

Our Health Services Department, working closely with the Schenectady County Health Department and following the guidelines established by the Center for Disease Control (CDC), will keep this page continuously updated with any new information as it becomes available. Please check back frequently. The CDC's H1N1 web site also contains valuable information for your reference.

Latest Updates

November 23, 2009: At this point, we have had 180 reported cases of Influenza Like Illness. With the arrival of additional vaccine from New York State, we have successfully administered 200 doses of H1N1 vaccine over the last week. Giving us a total of 600 doses administered over the trimester. As the end of the Fall term approaches, we continue to stress the importance of preventing influenza primarily through vaccination. If students have not received their vaccine here, then we urge them to contact their health department or primary care provider; as vaccine becomes more available.

The CDC has projected a 3rd phase of the H1N1 pandemic in late January/early February and the best protection is immunization.

It is important to reiterate: If you have had Influenza Like Illness, it is still recommended that you receive the H1N1 vaccine.

We Wish Everyone a Safe and Healthy Winter Break!

November 13, 2009: Health Services received 200 doses of H1N1 vaccine. Flu vaccination clinics will be set up for next week. The number of cases of Influenza Like Illness are minimal with only one student presenting with Influenza Like Illness this week.

November 6, 2009: The number of reported cases of H1N1 on our campus has dropped drastically with only four students ill during the period of 10/31/09 to 11/06/09. Public Health confirms a decrease in the number of cases within the general population, as well. It is expected that we will see waves of H1N1 flu throughout the entire 2009 - 2010 flu season. Because of this, we will continue to encourage our student to receive both the seasonal flu vaccine and the H1N1 vaccine. Our last seasonal flu clinic will be held November 12, 2009 in Reamer Campus Center, Room 308 from 11:00am to 3:00pm. You will be sent an email to sign up on ZARCA to receive the seasonal flu vaccine. We continue to await our next shipment of the H1N1 vaccine.

October 30, 2009: We continue to diagnosis a high volume of students with Influenza Like Illness. Students with Influenza Like Illness have been encouraged to go home to recuperate; however when this is not possible, they are instructed to self-isolate in their rooms. Please remember if you are sick with H1N1 do not expose others to the virus, as the infection with H1N1 can cause serious health problems for some individuals.

Our seasonal flu shot clinics will be held on Thursdays, November 5 & 12, 2009 at Reamer Campus Center from 11:00am to 3:00pm in Room 308. The cost for the vaccine is $27.00. You may pay by cash, check, or bill your tuition. For now, it will be on a first come, first serve situation. We will administer the vaccine until we run out.

Unfortunately, the H1N1 vaccine has not been available as early as we had hoped for. As soon as we receive our next shipment , we will notify students so they can sign up to be immunized. Remember college age students are one of the high risk groups that have been prioritized to receive the vaccine. The most efficient way to stop the spread of H1N1 is to be immunized.

October 23, 2009: We have seen a significant rise in the number of Influenza Like Illnesses over the past week. 70 Students reported to Health Services with Influenza Like Illness from Tuesday to Friday this week.

We continue to reinforce our policy that students with Influenza Like Illness NOT WALK IN to Health Services, but contact us via phone first. The policy is: Students must call Health Services if they think they have flu-like symptoms. Health Services will determine if they need to be seen, or directed to go home or self-isolate in their room. Students are not being examined unless they have underlying illnesses, such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, or are immunosuppressed. After students speak to Health Services and it is determined that they have Influenza Like Illness, Health Services will then notify the Dean of Student's office that the student is out for an extended amount of time and their office will then notify the student's professors. This will be considered the official notification needed to excuse students from classes.

Last week, we distributed 400 doses of H1N1 Vaccine. We are instructing students to check their email regularly, as they will receive an invitation to the H1N1 Vaccine Clinic via their email. We have ordered additional vaccine to immunize the entire student population, but it will arrive in small quantities in several shipments. Please remember: Even if you have had Influenza Like Illness, it is recommended that you receive the vaccine - Both H1N1 and the Seasonal Influenza to protect yourself in the best possible way.

October 19, 2009: We are beginning to see an increase in the number of ILI cases on campus. As of the week ending 10/16/09, we had 5 reported cases of ILI for the week. In the past two days, 10 new cases have been reported. As you may have heard, we have received a portion of our H1N1 vaccine order. Our goal is to begin immunizing our high risk students. High risk students are students with asthma, heart disease, kidney disease, diabetes or immunosuppression, such as lupus. Our first clinic will be offered Tuesday evening, October 20, 2009, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. Look for an email that will allow you to sign up via ZARCA to receive the vaccine. There is no cost for the H1N1 vaccine. The response we receive from our high risk population will determine how we distribute the vaccine at this time. It is important for all our students to remember to practice proper hand washing and respiratory etiquette to prevent the spread of H1N1. If a student develops signs of flu, the best option is to return home if possible until fever free for 24 hours without the use of fever reducing medication. If this is not possible, the student is advised to self-isolate. If you think you have flulike symptoms, visit our web page for guidance or call Health Services.

October 9, 2009: Schenectady County Public Health Department did receive a small shipment of H1N1 vaccine however we have not been allotted any at this time. We hope to receive the vaccine within the next week or so. We continue to see a small number of ILI cases on campus. This week 10-5-09 -10-9-09 six (6) cases of ILI were seen for a total of 29 cases to date. A campaign to educate students with regard to the vaccine is underway so they can make an informed decision as to whether or not they will receive the vaccine. Union Health Services is encouraging all students to follow the recommended guidelines established by the CDC and be sure to get both the seasonal and H1N1 vaccine. At this time we are on a waiting list for both vaccines. As soon as we receive them the information will be posted on the web site. Until then students need to be vigilant to proper hand washing, respiratory etiquette, and call Health Services if they have any concerns or questions.

October 5, 2009: During the week of 9-26-09 to 10-02-09 Health Services is reporting six (6) known cases of ILI, for a total of twenty-three (23) cases of ILI since reporting began in early September.

Sept. 30, 2009: Union College Health Services has been informed by Schenectady Public Health that vaccine for the H1N1 Virus will be available for delivery as early as October 6, 2009. It is unclear exactly the number of vaccines we will receive in the first shipment; however, it is expected that we will receive vaccine on a weekly basis until all of our students have had an opportunity to become immunized. As soon as we receive our first "batch" of vaccine, students will be able to pre-register on-line via ZARCA; so the administration of the vaccine can be done in a timely manner to accommodate the individual needs of our students. High risk students with chronic disease; such as asthma, diabetes, kidney disease, heart disease, blood disorders or immunosuppression will be offered the vaccine first. If students have been recently diagnosed with a chronic illness and Health Services does not have this information on record, please notify Health Services at 518-388-6120.

Sept. 25, 2009: The week of 9-19-09 to 9-25-09 Health Services is reporting seven (7) known cases of ILI (influenza-like illness) for a total of seventeen (17) to date. If you experience flu-like symptoms as described below it is important to return home in order to prevent the spread of the flu virus. Many people have been questioning how a person knows for sure whether or not they in fact have the H1N1 flu. At this time the local Health Department and the CDC are recommending that certain symptoms are definitive enough for the diagnosis to be made without doing lab work to determine if a student is positive for the H1N1 virus.

A review of these symptoms is as follows:

Fever greater or equal to 100 degrees
Cough
sore throat
chills
bodyaches
nasal congestion

If you have fever, chills, body aches and nasal congestion but no cough or sore throat it is not considered a case of ILI.

Sept. 18, 2009: The latest prediction from the CDC is the vaccine for H1N1 will be available mid October. Only one shot will be required. Health Services has taken the appropriate steps to receive the vaccine. However, it is unclear at this time if in fact we will receive it here to be administered on campus. We will keep you up to date as we learn more from our Public Health Department. The CDC and the American College Health Association is stressing the importance of compliance among college students to stay at home or in their rooms if they are experiencing signs and symptoms of the flu. Preventing the spread of the flu will be our primary goal. Students with chronic illness, such as diabetes, asthma, cardiac or renal disease, or those who are immunosuppressed must be seen in Health Services if they are experiencing signs and symptoms of the flu.

*At the end of this week 9/18/09, Health Services has seen eight (8) students with influenza like illness. The week prior, two (2) cases of ILI for a total of ten (10) reported cases.

Sept. 8, 2009: Human Resources issues a letter to all Union college employees about precautions concerning the H1N1 virus

Sept. 3, 2009: An e-mail goes out to all Union College parents about the College's efforts to prevent the spread of H1N1 on campus

Flu Prevention

Of course, the best method of addressing the flu is to prevent it from happening in the first place. It is believed that the H1N1 virus is transmitted primarily through respiratory secretions. You can stay healthy and take steps to prevent the spread of flu and other illnesses by:

Practicing good hand washing/hand sanitization. The College has installed a number of hand sanitizers in buildings around campus to assist with this
Observing proper respiratory etiquette. This means covering your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze, disposing of facial tissues properly and immediately, and washing your hands with soap or an alcohol-based cleanser after coughing or sneezing. Also, avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth as much as possible, since this is how germs are spread
Avoiding contact with others if you have symptoms of the flu or other respiratory illness (see below). Especially if you have a fever, you should stay home and refrain from participating in any classes, sports, or campus activities until you have been free of fever for at least 24 hours without the aid of fever-reducing medications. Please remember that any time you go out, you are impacting your fellow students and the rest of the campus community.
Engaging in healthy behaviors such as regular exercise, which boosts the immune system, as well as avoiding substances which weaken immunity, such as cigarettes and alcohol
Getting the seasonal flu vaccine. We will be offering this vaccine to students here on campus this fall; please check back with this site for more information on when and where the vaccine will be given

In addition to the preventative measures above, students should come to campus prepared with a basic cold and flu kit containing a thermometer, fever-reducing medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil), cough syrup, hand sanitizer, and plenty of tissues.

Symptoms of the Flu

Following are the most common symptoms of the flu (both the seasonal flu and the H1N1 virus):

Sudden onset of cough, nasal congestion and sore throat
Fever of 100 degrees or more
Muscle aches/body aches/chills
Headache
Fatigue
Loss of appetite
Diarrhea or vomiting (in some cases)

Many of these symptoms may also result from other seasonal illnesses, so if you are not sure if you have the flu, call Health Services at 388-6120 (do not go in person).

In addition, call Health Services immediately if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, which may indicate a worsening of your condition and a need for medical attention:

Difficulty breathing/shortness of breath
Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
Sudden dizziness
Confusion
Severe or persistent vomiting
Flu-like symptoms that improve, but then return accompanied by fever and a more severe cough

Specific Steps To Take If You Are Experiencing Flu-Like Symptoms

If you are a student experiencing flu-like symptoms, you should take the following actions:

Do not attend any classes or extracurricular activities
Call Health Services at 388-6120 to report your symptoms (do not go in person). Also, please do not go to the local emergency room with flu-like symptoms
If possible, leave campus and return home via private transportation as soon as flu-like symptoms appear. Avoid public transportation
If you must leave your room to return home, wear a mask that covers your nose and mouth. Such masks will be available on campus through Health Services
If it is not possible for you to return home, immediately isolate yourself from other individuals by remaining in your dorm room or campus residence until you have been free of fever for at least 24 hours without the aid of fever-reducing medications such as Tylenol or Advil.
If you impose self-isolation, notify your RA, House Manager, House Coordinator, or Greek President. The Residential Life, Minerva, or Greek Life Office will coordinate the delivery of meals to your room.
Drink plenty of fluids and get plenty of rest. Take medications to reduce your fever, such as Tylenol or Advil
Contact Health Services immediately if your symptoms appear to be worsening or if you have a chronic medical condition such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease or a weak immune system, in which case Health Services WILL want to see you

Frequently Asked Questions

What if I am not sure my symptoms are those of the flu?
When in doubt, be on the safe side and stay in your room. Avoid attending classes or campus activities, and call Health Services at 388-6120 to report your symptoms.

When can I resume normal activities after having the flu?
It is important that you avoid contact with others until you have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without the aid of fever-reducing medications such as Tylenol or Advil.

Why do I have to leave campus if I have the flu?
Our priority at Union is the health and safety of all our students. If you believe you have the flu, the best course of action for everyone is for you to remain out of contact with the rest of the student body, especially given the ease with which the virus can be spread through respiratory secretions in group situations. This can best be accomplished by returning home to your family and seeking treatment from your home physician.

What about anti-viral medications?
Up until now, the symptoms most frequently associated with the H1N1 flu have been fairly mild. Anti-viral medications typically only shorten the course of the illness by a day or so rather than making it go away, and because there is great concern over the possibility of developing resistance to an overuse of anti-virals, these medicines are generally not recommended. If you believe you may have the H1N1 flu, please do not come to Health Services for anti-viral medication. Call us and we will determine the best course of action.

How are cases of H1N1 virus confirmed?
Health Services will follow the guidelines established by the local Health Department regarding the need for testing.

Is it true that there is a vaccine for H1N1 in development?
There have been reports in the media that such a vaccine may be available at the end of October. Union will adhere to CDC guidelines regarding the communication and distribution of such a vaccine. But we will offer the regular flu vaccine on campus this fall-- please check back with this site for details.

Where can I go for more detailed information?
Visit the CDC web site at http://www.cdc.gov/H1N1FLU/. Or, for specific questions about the H1N1 virus and Union College, call or e-mail Barbara Lahey, Union's Medical Director of Health Services, at 388-6120 or laheyb@union.edu.

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Throughout the academic year, this page will be the primary resource for Union students, their families and the campus community about the H1N1 flu virus and Union's response. The College also has an Emergency Management Team in place which has identified steps that should be taken in the event of a flu outbreak, and such steps have already been built into Union's detailed Emergency Preparedness Plan. One of these steps is to ask students who are experiencing flu-like symptoms consistent with the H1N1 virus to leave campus and return home to their families. Our Health Services Department, working closely with the Schenectady County Health Department and following the guidelines established by the Center for Disease Control (CDC), will keep this page continuously updated with any new information as it becomes available. Please check back frequently. The CDC's H1N1 web site also contains valuable information for your reference. Latest Updates *November 23, 2009:* At this point, we have had 180 reported cases of Influenza Like Illness. With the arrival of additional vaccine from New York State, we have successfully administered 200 doses of H1N1 vaccine over the last week. Giving us a total of 600 doses administered over the trimester. As the end of the Fall term approaches, we continue to stress the importance of preventing influenza primarily through vaccination. If students have not received their vaccine here, then we urge them to contact their health department or primary care provider; as vaccine becomes more available. The CDC has projected a 3rd phase of the H1N1 pandemic in late January/early February and the best protection is immunization. It is important to reiterate: If you have had Influenza Like Illness, it is still recommended that you receive the H1N1 vaccine. We Wish Everyone a Safe and Healthy Winter Break! *November 13, 2009:* Health Services received 200 doses of H1N1 vaccine. Flu vaccination clinics will be set up for next week. The number of cases of Influenza Like Illness are minimal with only one student presenting with Influenza Like Illness this week. *November 6, 2009:* The number of reported cases of H1N1 on our campus has dropped drastically with only four students ill during the period of 10/31/09 to 11/06/09. Public Health confirms a decrease in the number of cases within the general population, as well. It is expected that we will see waves of H1N1 flu throughout the entire 2009 - 2010 flu season. Because of this, we will continue to encourage our student to receive both the seasonal flu vaccine and the H1N1 vaccine. Our last seasonal flu clinic will be held November 12, 2009 in Reamer Campus Center, Room 308 from 11:00am to 3:00pm. You will be sent an email to sign up on ZARCA to receive the seasonal flu vaccine. We continue to await our next shipment of the H1N1 vaccine. *October 30, 2009:* We continue to diagnosis a high volume of students with Influenza Like Illness. Students with Influenza Like Illness have been encouraged to go home to recuperate; however when this is not possible, they are instructed to self-isolate in their rooms. Please remember if you are sick with H1N1 do not expose others to the virus, as the infection with H1N1 can cause serious health problems for some individuals. Our seasonal flu shot clinics will be held on Thursdays, November 5 & 12, 2009 at Reamer Campus Center from 11:00am to 3:00pm in Room 308. The cost for the vaccine is $27.00. You may pay by cash, check, or bill your tuition. For now, it will be on a first come, first serve situation. We will administer the vaccine until we run out. Unfortunately, the H1N1 vaccine has not been available as early as we had hoped for. As soon as we receive our next shipment , we will notify students so they can sign up to be immunized. Remember college age students are one of the high risk groups that have been prioritized to receive the vaccine. The most efficient way to stop the spread of H1N1 is to be immunized. *October 23, 2009:* We have seen a significant rise in the number of Influenza Like Illnesses over the past week. 70 Students reported to Health Services with Influenza Like Illness from Tuesday to Friday this week. We continue to reinforce our policy that students with Influenza Like Illness NOT WALK IN to Health Services, but contact us via phone first. The policy is: Students must call Health Services if they think they have flu-like symptoms. Health Services will determine if they need to be seen, or directed to go home or self-isolate in their room. Students are not being examined unless they have underlying illnesses, such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, or are immunosuppressed. After students speak to Health Services and it is determined that they have Influenza Like Illness, Health Services will then notify the Dean of Student's office that the student is out for an extended amount of time and their office will then notify the student's professors. This will be considered the official notification needed to excuse students from classes. Last week, we distributed 400 doses of H1N1 Vaccine. We are instructing students to check their email regularly, as they will receive an invitation to the H1N1 Vaccine Clinic via their email. We have ordered additional vaccine to immunize the entire student population, but it will arrive in small quantities in several shipments. Please remember: Even if you have had Influenza Like Illness, it is recommended that you receive the vaccine - Both H1N1 and the Seasonal Influenza to protect yourself in the best possible way. *October 19, 2009:* We are beginning to see an increase in the number of ILI cases on campus. As of the week ending 10/16/09, we had 5 reported cases of ILI for the week. In the past two days, 10 new cases have been reported. As you may have heard, we have received a portion of our H1N1 vaccine order. Our goal is to begin immunizing our high risk students. High risk students are students with asthma, heart disease, kidney disease, diabetes or immunosuppression, such as lupus. Our first clinic will be offered Tuesday evening, October 20, 2009, from 6:00 to 8:00 PM. Look for an email that will allow you to sign up via ZARCA to receive the vaccine. There is no cost for the H1N1 vaccine. The response we receive from our high risk population will determine how we distribute the vaccine at this time. It is important for all our students to remember to practice proper hand washing and respiratory etiquette to prevent the spread of H1N1. If a student develops signs of flu, the best option is to return home if possible until fever free for 24 hours without the use of fever reducing medication. If this is not possible, the student is advised to self-isolate. If you think you have flulike symptoms, visit our web page for guidance or call Health Services. *October 9, 2009:* Schenectady County Public Health Department did receive a small shipment of H1N1 vaccine however we have not been allotted any at this time. We hope to receive the vaccine within the next week or so. We continue to see a small number of ILI cases on campus. This week 10-5-09 -10-9-09 six (6) cases of ILI were seen for a total of 29 cases to date. A campaign to educate students with regard to the vaccine is underway so they can make an informed decision as to whether or not they will receive the vaccine. Union Health Services is encouraging all students to follow the recommended guidelines established by the CDC and be sure to get both the seasonal and H1N1 vaccine. At this time we are on a waiting list for both vaccines. As soon as we receive them the information will be posted on the web site. Until then students need to be vigilant to proper hand washing, respiratory etiquette, and call Health Services if they have any concerns or questions. October 5, 2009: During the week of 9-26-09 to 10-02-09 Health Services is reporting six (6) known cases of ILI, for a total of twenty-three (23) cases of ILI since reporting began in early September. Sept. 30, 2009: Union College Health Services has been informed by Schenectady Public Health that vaccine for the H1N1 Virus will be available for delivery as early as October 6, 2009. It is unclear exactly the number of vaccines we will receive in the first shipment; however, it is expected that we will receive vaccine on a weekly basis until all of our students have had an opportunity to become immunized. As soon as we receive our first "batch" of vaccine, students will be able to pre-register on-line via ZARCA; so the administration of the vaccine can be done in a timely manner to accommodate the individual needs of our students. High risk students with chronic disease; such as asthma, diabetes, kidney disease, heart disease, blood disorders or immunosuppression will be offered the vaccine first. If students have been recently diagnosed with a chronic illness and Health Services does not have this information on record, please notify Health Services at 518-388-6120. *Sept. 25, 2009:* The week of 9-19-09 to 9-25-09 Health Services is reporting seven (7) known cases of ILI (influenza-like illness) for a total of seventeen (17) to date. If you experience flu-like symptoms as described below it is important to return home in order to prevent the spread of the flu virus. Many people have been questioning how a person knows for sure whether or not they in fact have the H1N1 flu. At this time the local Health Department and the CDC are recommending that certain symptoms are definitive enough for the diagnosis to be made without doing lab work to determine if a student is positive for the H1N1 virus. A review of these symptoms is as follows: Fever greater or equal to 100 degrees Cough sore throat chills bodyaches nasal congestion If you have fever, chills, body aches and nasal congestion but no cough or sore throat it is not considered a case of ILI. *Sept. 18, 2009:* The latest prediction from the CDC is the vaccine for H1N1 will be available mid October. Only one shot will be required. Health Services has taken the appropriate steps to receive the vaccine. However, it is unclear at this time if in fact we will receive it here to be administered on campus. We will keep you up to date as we learn more from our Public Health Department. The CDC and the American College Health Association is stressing the importance of compliance among college students to stay at home or in their rooms if they are experiencing signs and symptoms of the flu. Preventing the spread of the flu will be our primary goal. Students with chronic illness, such as diabetes, asthma, cardiac or renal disease, or those who are immunosuppressed must be seen in Health Services if they are experiencing signs and symptoms of the flu. At the end of this week 9/18/09, Health Services has seen eight (8) students with influenza like illness. The week prior, two (2) cases of ILI for a total of ten (10) reported cases. Sept. 8, 2009: Human Resources issues a letter to all Union college employees about precautions concerning the H1N1 virus Sept. 3, 2009: An e-mail goes out to all Union College parents about the College's efforts to prevent the spread of H1N1 on campus Flu Prevention Of course, the best method of addressing the flu is to prevent it from happening in the first place. It is believed that the H1N1 virus is transmitted primarily through respiratory secretions. You can stay healthy and take steps to prevent the spread of flu and other illnesses by: Practicing good hand washing/hand sanitization. The College has installed a number of hand sanitizers in buildings around campus to assist with this Observing proper respiratory etiquette. This means covering your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze, disposing of facial tissues properly and immediately, and washing your hands with soap or an alcohol-based cleanser after coughing or sneezing. Also, avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth as much as possible, since this is how germs are spread Avoiding contact with others if you have symptoms of the flu or other respiratory illness (see below). Especially if you have a fever, you should stay home and refrain from participating in any classes, sports, or campus activities until you have been free of fever for at least 24 hours without the aid of fever-reducing medications. Please remember that any time you go out, you are impacting your fellow students and the rest of the campus community. Engaging in healthy behaviors such as regular exercise, which boosts the immune system, as well as avoiding substances which weaken immunity, such as cigarettes and alcohol Getting the seasonal flu vaccine. We will be offering this vaccine to students here on campus this fall; please check back with this site for more information on when and where the vaccine will be given* In addition to the preventative measures above, students should come to campus prepared with a basic cold and flu kit containing a thermometer, fever-reducing medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil), cough syrup, hand sanitizer, and plenty of tissues. Symptoms of the Flu Following are the most common symptoms of the flu (both the seasonal flu and the H1N1 virus): Sudden onset of cough, nasal congestion and sore throat Fever of 100 degrees or more Muscle aches/body aches/chills Headache Fatigue Loss of appetite Diarrhea or vomiting (in some cases) Many of these symptoms may also result from other seasonal illnesses, so if you are not sure if you have the flu, call Health Services at 388-6120 (do not go in person). In addition, call Health Services immediately if you are experiencing any of the following symptoms, which may indicate a worsening of your condition and a need for medical attention: Difficulty breathing/shortness of breath Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen Sudden dizziness Confusion Severe or persistent vomiting Flu-like symptoms that improve, but then return accompanied by fever and a more severe cough Specific Steps To Take If You Are Experiencing Flu-Like Symptoms If you are a student experiencing flu-like symptoms, you should take the following actions: Do not attend any classes or extracurricular activities Call Health Services at 388-6120 to report your symptoms (do not go in person). Also, please do not go to the local emergency room with flu-like symptoms If possible, leave campus and return home via private transportation as soon as flu-like symptoms appear. Avoid public transportation If you must leave your room to return home, wear a mask that covers your nose and mouth. Such masks will be available on campus through Health Services If it is not possible for you to return home, immediately isolate yourself from other individuals by remaining in your dorm room or campus residence until you have been free of fever for at least 24 hours without the aid of fever-reducing medications such as Tylenol or Advil. If you impose self-isolation, notify your RA, House Manager, House Coordinator, or Greek President. The Residential Life, Minerva, or Greek Life Office will coordinate the delivery of meals to your room. Drink plenty of fluids and get plenty of rest. Take medications to reduce your fever, such as Tylenol or Advil Contact Health Services immediately if your symptoms appear to be worsening or if you have a chronic medical condition such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease or a weak immune system, in which case Health Services WILL want to see you Frequently Asked Questions *What if I am not sure my symptoms are those of the flu?* When in doubt, be on the safe side and stay in your room. Avoid attending classes or campus activities, and call Health Services at 388-6120 to report your symptoms. *When can I resume normal activities after having the flu?* It is important that you avoid contact with others until you have been fever-free for at least 24 hours without the aid of fever-reducing medications such as Tylenol or Advil. *Why do I have to leave campus if I have the flu?* Our priority at Union is the health and safety of all our students. If you believe you have the flu, the best course of action for everyone is for you to remain out of contact with the rest of the student body, especially given the ease with which the virus can be spread through respiratory secretions in group situations. This can best be accomplished by returning home to your family and seeking treatment from your home physician. *What about anti-viral medications?* Up until now, the symptoms most frequently associated with the H1N1 flu have been fairly mild. Anti-viral medications typically only shorten the course of the illness by a day or so rather than making it go away, and because there is great concern over the possibility of developing resistance to an overuse of anti-virals, these medicines are generally not recommended. If you believe you may have the H1N1 flu, please do not come to Health Services for anti-viral medication. Call us and we will determine the best course of action. *How are cases of H1N1 virus confirmed?* Health Services will follow the guidelines established by the local Health Department regarding the need for testing. *Is it true that there is a vaccine for H1N1 in development?* There have been reports in the media that such a vaccine may be available at the end of October. Union will adhere to CDC guidelines regarding the communication and distribution of such a vaccine. But we will offer the regular flu vaccine on campus this fall-- please check back with this site for details. *Where can I go for more detailed information?* Visit the CDC web site at http://www.cdc.gov/H1N1FLU/. Or, for specific questions about the H1N1 virus and Union College, call or e-mail Barbara Lahey, Union's Medical Director of Health Services, at 388-6120 or laheyb@union.edu.
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