Indiana State University Newsroom

Terre Haute, Ind. -- In preparation of a possible H1N1 outbreak on the Indiana State University campus this Fall, the University has undertaken a number of educational initiatives aimed at prevention as well as protocols to be followed should flu cases be diagnosed.

Prevention is the best defense we have against the H1N1 flu. Student Health Promotion has distributed flu prevention and hand washing posters and table tents across campus. During the next month flu prevention programs will be offered across campus and in the residence halls. Faculty, staff and students are encouraged to attend one of these programs and to visit the Student Health Promotions web page for more information at http://www.indstate.edu/shp/rsrcs-flu.htm .

"A little preparation may reap big benefits for students, parents, faculty and staff," said Bridget Gaddis, R.N., director of the Student Health Center. "The end result is a healthier community and peace of mind for parents whose children are away from home."

In addition to handwashing, getting a proper amount of rest and eating a balanced diet, students, faculty and staff are encouraged to build a wellness kit, including items such as vitamins, non aspirin pain reliever, cold and cough medicine, thermometer, chicken soup, electrolyte balanced fluids such as sports drinks, tissues, alcohol-based hand cleaner and surface cleaning products.

"H1N1 symptoms are similar to seasonal flu," Gaddis said.

H1N1 flu symptoms include a fever higher than 100 degrees, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Diarrhea and vomiting have also been reported.

"If you are experiencing all or any of these symptoms you really need to stay home," Gaddis added.

Students with flu symptoms will be directed to go to the Student Health Center for testing. Should tests be positive for Influenza type A virus it will be assumed that there is a high probability the student is infected with H1N1.

Infected students will be given medical advice and will be instructed to go home and avoid contact with other persons for at least another 24 hours after the fever is gone. They will be advised that faculty are being asked to work with sick students to make up any missed class work but that they have the responsibility to follow up with instructors via telephone or e-mail.

Students who are unable to go home will be isolated in a campus location either in the Health Center or the residence halls. Food delivery will be arranged for students required to remain isolated on campus.

University employees will be advised to follow similar procedures - consult their personal physician; go home and remain isolated until the fever is gone; communicate via telephone and e-mail with their supervisors regarding missed work and their scheduled return. Faculty should consult with their respective Chairs and Deans regarding any questions involving academic issues resulting from a flu outbreak. Existing sick leave policies will apply to a flu outbreak as they do to any other health concern.

For the latest information on the Influenza situation visit www.indstate.edu and the CDC web site at www.cdc.gov and follow flu links.

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Media contact: Dave Taylor, Media Relations Director, (812) 237-3743 or Dave.Taylor@indstate.edu

Writer: Paula Meyer, ISU Communications & Marketing, (812) 237-3783 or paula.meyer@indstate.edu