H1N1 (Swine Flu) Preventative Measures

Dear Holy Family University Student:
 
You may be aware of the growing concern in the nation over H1N1 virus (Swine Flu).

H1N1 is a virulent strain of influenza that spreads easily from person-to-person. This particular virus is more prevalent among individuals ages five through 25, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Those stricken with the virus experience high fever (100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher), cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headaches, chills and fatigue. Symptoms may also include vomiting and diarrhea. Normally healthy individuals may recover without hospitalization or medical treatment after three to four days. However, those with chronic health conditions are at greater risk of complications from an H1N1 infection.

Holy Family University officials are closely monitoring the spread of this virus and are committed to maintaining a healthy environment for students, faculty and staff.

H1N1 is a highly contagious virus and University officials ask that you take simple, preventive measures to avoid infection:

■ Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw used tissues in the trash immediately.
■ Wash hands often with soap and water. Hand sanitizer that contains at least 60 percent alcohol can also be used.
■ Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
■ If you get sick, stay home or at your place of residence and limit contact with others.

The University has taken proactive steps to help prevent the spread of H1N1 at Holy Family:

■ Hand sanitizer dispenser wall units were installed for general use at elevators and near doorways at the University’s three locations. Please use them!

■ Housekeeping and janitorial staff are wiping doorknobs, faucets and other surfaces with more effective cleaners to kill influenza viruses.

■ Information on how to prevent an H1N1 infection, what to do if you get sick, and reminders about good hand hygiene are posted in University bathrooms, on the Health Services web site, and appear on message centers across the Northeast Philadelphia Campus, as well as at the Woodhaven and Newtown locations.

Following simple preventive measures is the best way to avoid an H1N1 infection. Isolation of those infected is the best way to prevent spread of the virus.

The university will follow guidelines for handling H1N1 as stated by the Pennsylvania Department of Health, and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

In keeping with these guidelines, anyone with a fever and flu-like symptoms should stay home, get rest, and remain isolated from others until 24 hours after a fever has broken without the use of medication such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen.

Students who think they may have H1N1 should contact Barbara Hannigan, RN, MSN, the Campus Nurse and Director of Health Services, at 267-341-3262 or bhannigan@holyfamily.edu and stay home.
 
Learn more about H1N1 by visiting www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu, or www.health.state.pa.us.

Sincerely,

Barbara M. Hannigan, RN, MSN
Director of Health Services
Campus Nurse

Sister Patrice Feher, CSFN
Assistant Vice President for Student Services




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