UNIVERSITY PARK – Novel H1N1 cases at Penn State’s University Park campus increased through the first week of July, but reported cases have decreased significantly this week at University Park and elsewhere in Pennsylvania.
University Health Services (UHS) continues to meet with Pennsylvania Department of Health (PaDOH) officials in preparation for a projected increase in H1N1 cases this fall. UHS is working with other Penn State units including housing and dining services to educate students and staff on flu preparedness and plan for the projected increase in flu-related illness.
Effective hand hygiene and cough etiquette are key elements to reduce spread of respiratory illness like H1N1. UHS is launching a handwashing campaign to educate the Penn State community on this issue. Information about flu preparedness has been mailed to all incoming first year students and will be provided to residence hall staff, fraternities and other student groups. As fall approaches, UHS is encouraging faculty and staff pharmacy customers to use mail order as a way to decrease risk of exposure and infection.
Margaret Spear, director of University Health Services, encourages students and local residents alike to get the seasonal flu shot this fall. “With the likely reality that there will be two types of influenza this fall – H1N1 and seasonal flu – it is more important than ever to get vaccinated against seasonal flu.”
It is uncertain when an H1N1 vaccine will become available for widespread use. However, individuals who contract seasonal flu this fall will have increased vulnerability to H1N1 and vice versa.
Anyone with flu-like symptoms should contact their health care provider. Most individuals with influenza can follow the CDC guidelines for self care and remain at home. Individuals who have significant chronic illness such as asthma, diabetes or heart disease, are immunosuppressed, or are pregnant are advised to see their health care provider if they think they might have influenza.
Symptoms for H1N1 flu are similar to seasonal flu – fever, headache, upper respiratory tract symptoms (cough, sore throat, runny nose), muscle aches, fatigue, vomiting and/or diarrhea.
Download UHS’ Prepare for Flu Season flyer online.
Additional information about the H1N1 influenza is available here.
