Novel H1N1 Flu

Full Description

For updated campus information regarding the flu, visit http://www.wm.edu/flu/

For further information from the CDC, go to:  http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/

Novel H1N1 Flu FAQ’s

What is novel H1N1 (swine Flu)?

Novel H1N1 (referred to as “swine flu” early on) is a new influenza virus causing illness in people. H1N1 virus was first detected in people in the United States in April 2009. This virus is spreading from person-to person worldwide, probably in much the same way that regular seasonal influenza viruses spread.

How does novel H1N1 virus spread?

Spread of novel H1N1 virus is thought to occur in the same way that seasonal flu spreads from person to person, mainly through coughing or sneezing by people with influenza. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something – such as a surface or object – with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.

What are the symptoms of the flu?

The symptoms of the novel H1N1 flu virus in people include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. A significant number of people who have been infected with this virus also have reported diarrhea and vomiting. Severe illnesses and death has occurred as a result of illness associated with this virus.

What can I do to protect myself from getting sick?

A novel H1N1 vaccine is currently in production and may be ready for the public in the fall. As always, a vaccine will be available to protect against seasonal influenza. The Student Health Center will publicize when administration of this vaccination has begun on our website.

Take these everyday steps to protect your health:

•  Cover your nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.

• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol hand cleaners are also effective.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.

• Stay home if you get sick. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them. If you MUST go out, wear a mask for the protection of others.

What should I do if I get sick?

If H1N1 has been identified at the College of William and Mary and you become ill with influenza-like
symptoms, including fever, body aches, runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, nausea, or vomiting or
diarrhea, you should:

• Stay home and avoid contact with other people. CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone except to get medical care or for other necessities. (Your fever should be gone without the use of a fever-reducing medicine.) Staying at home means that you should not leave your home except to seek medical care, if indicated.

• Stay away from others as much as possible to keep from making others sick.  This means avoiding normal activities, including work, school, travel, shopping, social events, and public gatherings.

• If you have severe illness or you are at high risk for flu complications, call the Student Health Center at 757-221-4386. Your health care provider will determine whether flu testing or treatment is needed.

In adults, emergency warning signs that need urgent medical attention include:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
•  Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
• Sudden dizziness
•  Confusion
• Severe or persistent vomiting
• Flu-like symptoms improve but then return with fever and worse cough

How is the flu treated?

• Rest is extremely important to your recovery. Drink lots of fluids like broth, sports drinks, tea, ginger ale, etc., to prevent dehydration.

• Medications like Acetaminophen and Ibuprofen may help to reduce your fever, muscle aches, and headache. Cough medicine, salt water gargles for sore throat, and nasal decongestants are helpful for symptomatic relief.

The priority use for influenza antiviral drugs is to treat severe influenza illness (for example hospitalized patients) and people who are sick with a condition that places them at high risk for serious flu-related complications.