2009 H1N1 (Swine) Flu Update

October 7, 2009

 

Students, Parents, Faculty and Staff:

 

The Johnson State College administration is closely monitoring developments nationwide and in Vermont and Lamoille County related to the H1N1 influenza virus. At this time, the college has no plans to close if an outbreak of H1N1 occurs on campus.

 

We are working closely with emergency preparedness workers in Lamoille County to monitor flu conditions and make decisions about the best steps to take concerning our institution. Johnson State College's emergency preparedness committee has met on a regular basis and we will keep you updated with new information as it becomes available. This Web page, as well as JSC email and our MyJSC portal, will provide information on the illness and should be viewed as a resource for students, parents, faculty, and staff looking for updates at the college if an outbreak occurs.

 

In the meantime, because flu can be spread easily from person to person, we are taking steps to prevent the spread of flu at Johnson State College for as long as possible. We need everyone's help to accomplish this.

 

Here are a few things you can do:


  • Practice good hand hygiene by washing your hands with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing. Alcohol-based hand cleaners also are effective.
  • Practice respiratory etiquette by covering your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. If you don't have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your elbow or shoulder, not into your hands. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth; germs are spread this way.
  • Know the signs and symptoms of the flu. A fever is a temperature taken with a thermometer that is equal to or greater than 100 degrees Fahrenheit or 38 degrees Celsius. Look for possible signs of fever: if the person feels very warm, has a flushed appearance, or is sweating or shivering.
  • Stay home if you have flu or flu-like illness for at least 24 hours after you no longer have a fever (100 degrees Fahrenheit or 38 degrees Celsius) or signs of a fever (have chills, feel very warm, have a flushed appearance, or are sweating). This should be determined without the use of fever-reducing medication (any medicine that contains ibuprofen or acetaminophen). Don't go to class or work. Students: your instructors will ask you to return to your room or home if you exhibit flu-like symptoms. Additionally, if you live in an on-campus residence, please be sure to let your R.A. know that you are sick.
  • Talk with your health care provider or Jeanie Cass, JSC's Health Center Director (Jeanie.Cass@jsc.edu; 802-635-1265) about whether you should be vaccinated. People at higher risk for 2009 H1N1 flu complications include pregnant women and people with chronic medical conditions (such as asthma, heart disease, or diabetes). For more information about priority groups for vaccination, visit www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/vaccination/acip.htm.

 


Please be advised that we will keep you up to date about the H1N1 vaccination process.

For the most up-to-date information on flu, visit www.flu.gov, or call 1-800-CDC-INFO (232-4636). In Vermont, you can visit http://healthvermont.gov/panflu/SwineFlu.aspx