Thursday, April 30, 2009

Prevention of Swine Flu

At this time, there are NO suspected cases of Swine Flu at Olivet Nazarene University.

Nonetheless, in light of the World Health Organization's recent elevation of the influenza pandemic alert from phase 4 to 5, University officials have enacted the existing pandemic preparedness plan.

At this stage, effective and essential measures include heightened surveillance, early detection and treatment of cases, and infection control in all health facilities.

Here are a few things to consider:

Symptoms: Fever, lethergy, lack of appetite and cough (runny nose and sore throat have also been reported)

Transmission: Through close contact with infected people. Nasal or oral secretions (from cough or sneeze), touching something that has the virus on it and then touching your mouth, nose or eyes.

If you are sick: STAY HOME and SEE YOUR DOCTOR! The current anti-viral medications ARE effective for this type of influenza. Testing can be done at your physician's office or the local ER.

Avoid Getting Sick: Wash your hands! Wash your hands! Wash your hands!

Don't touch your face (eyes, nose mouth)!

This is how germs get in your body!!!!!!!

Don't put foreign objects in your mouth... pens, glasses, keys!

This is not a time for fear, but a time for precautions and preparations.

We are in communication with the local health department, and more updates will be shared as needed.

More information is available at http://www.cdc.gov/

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