Tuesday, September 8, 2009

Update: Education and Isolation

As of September 8, 2009, there have been two reported cases of Olivet Nazarene University students with an influenza like illness.

While it has not been confirmed that these students have the H1N1 virus, they have been isolated from the student body as a preventative measure. Both students are expected to make a quick and full recovery.

As recommended by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Kankakee County Health Department and the Illinois Department of Public Health, the University continues to focus on educating those who are not sick, and isolating those who are.

Currently, there is no commercial testing available for H1N1. Instead, care is determined by an "influenza like illness," including symtoms of a fever of 100 degrees or greater, accompanied by a cough or sore throat.

Students with these symptoms will be isolated from the student body until they have gone 24-hours without a fever, at which point they are no longer contagious. Whenever possible, the University will send students with an influenza like illness home. In cases where traveling home is not a realistic option, isolated, on-campus facilities will be provided.

Faculty and staff members who have an influenza like illness have been advised to stay home until they have gone at least 24-hours without a fever.

In order to provide the best possible care to our students, the University requests that the general public do not contact the Health Service with general H1N1 inquiries. This way, we can help ensure our phone lines are kept open for students in need of medical services.

As the situation warrants, additional information, University policies, and updates on the H1N1 virus will be posted to this blog.

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