Flu Information

Please use this and the links to the right as an informational resource about the H1N1 Flu virus as well as the seasonal flu virus.

If you think you have flu symptoms please see our Self Care Guidelines.

Recent Updates

flu flyer

University Health Center High Risk Flu Clinic

The University Health Center is currently scheduling H1N1 and Seasonal vaccine appointments for students with high risk medical conditions. A limited number of vaccines are available on a first come basis by appointment only. High risk students may call 540-568-6178 to schedule an appointment.

Faculty and staff will not be able to receive vaccine from the UHC at this time but will be eligible to receive vaccine from Intravene clinic on December 4, 10 am – 6 pm at Memorial Hall Gym. (Continue to monitor the UHC website for updates)

H1N1 Influenza Bulletin

September 23, 2009

Throughout the summer, cases of H1N1 influenza have appeared in all areas of Virginia and in all of The United States and the world.  The Shenandoah Valley has had a number of cases. JMU and the University Health Center have been preparing for situations like this for several years, and remain vigilant to the local, state, national and international situation.

H1N1 flu illness is very similar to the seasonal flu that appears every year from about November to March.  The symptoms include some or all of:  runny nose, nasal congestion, sore throat, cough and fever (over 100 degrees).  If you develop these symptoms at a moderate or severe level, you should contact medical care for advice.  The recommendations for care change frequently. (See www.flu.gov) 

In the coming school year, starting August 24, 2009, the JMU Health Center will be able to answer your questions regarding the flu and treat students from the state and national advisories.  The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Clinical Advisory Group of the Virginia Commissioner of Health continue to advise us regarding testing and treating students if suspected cases appear on campus. This virus has remained sensitive to antiviral treatment with one of the two medications known to be effective in minimizing the symptoms and may be prescribed by the Health Center following the strict CDC guidelines for use.  Excessive use can lead to resistance by the virus so conservative criteria will be used by UHC providers.

When the vaccine becomes available, the Health Center will have supplies for administration to students at no cost, although an administration fee may be necessary.  There will be schedules for both the H1N1 vaccine and the yearly seasonal flu vaccine. Watch our webpage for times and places. 

Health officials advise that if you get sick, stay at home or in your dorm room to prevent the spread of illness to others; consider seeking medical attention before 48 hours of illness has occurred if you are severely ill.  If you must go out in public, use the prevention steps described below.  Self isolation should continue for 24 hours after your fever has resolved (staying under 100 degees).  Further information is available at www.flu.gov.

To help prevent the spread of illness, cover your nose and mouth with a tissue, or cough and sneeze into your sleeve at the elbow.  If you used a tissue, throw it away immediately and wash your hands with soap and water.  If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol ‐based hand cleaner.  Using a mask to cover your nose and mouth when in public may help prevent spread. 

If you are well, avoid contact with sick people.  In group situations, try stay at least 6 feet away from persons with influenza like illness.  When you are in public, try not to touch your nose, mouth or eyes to prevent infection.  Wash your hands with soap and water as often as you can.   

If you live with an ill person, the CDC has guidelines for you to follow: 

http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/guidance_homecare.htm


Students with suspected illness may call the Health Center, 540‐568‐6178