Flu Letter

August 26, 2009

Dear Students:

You have probably heard that throughout the country, the H1N1 flu illness is impacting communities, including colleges and universities. The H1N1 virus is very similar to the seasonal flu that appears every year from about November to March. The symptoms for H1N1 include some or all of the following: runny nose, nasal congestion, sore throat, cough and fever. The distinguishing factor between this virus and a common cold is a higher fever.

Prevention will be a key component in keeping our JMU community healthy during this academic year. Your individual actions and behavior can help to limit the severity of the H1N1 and the seasonal flu affecting JMU. Please practice these preventive measures:

  1. Wash your hands with soap and water frequently – especially after sneezing/coughing- or use an alcohol-based hand gel.
  2. Cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze with a tissue or your sleeve rather than your hands. Check out this YouTube video.
  3. Do not share food, drink, or utensils.
  4. Avoid contact with ill persons.

If you should develop flu-like symptoms related to H1N1 we ask that you stay home in your residence hall room or apartment (self-isolation) until you have not had a fever (without the assistance of medication) for at least 24 hours. If you have a meal contract, a roommate or friend can request a meal for you to bring to your room/apartment.

Call 568-7985 to arrange for a to-go meal; 8:00 am – 5:00 pm Sun-Sat. If you have a serious pre-existing medical condition and have flu-like symptoms, please seek the attention of your family practitioner or the University Health Center. The University Health Center has several links on their web page with additional information, including self care guidelines for the flu, and you can call with your questions (568-6178). Be sure to contact your professors as soon as you develop symptoms associated with the H1N1 virus.

Vaccines for the seasonal flu will be offered to students in October. When the vaccine for the H1N1 becomes available, information will be sent to you on that vaccine as well. Your cooperation in taking healthy steps to prevent illness and caring for your roommate and friends will help promote a successful semester. It will take all of us practicing healthy behaviors to keep these viruses from impacting the JMU community.

Here’s to good health!

Dr. Mark Warner
Senior Vice President for Student Affairs
and University Planning

Dr. Stephen Rodgers
Medical Director,
University Health Center