Thursday, October 1, 2009

Information for roommates of sick students

Over the past few weeks, on the few occassions where students have been isolated for an "influenza like illness," the Health Service has provided the following information to the affected student's roommate(s). This information is posted as an additional resource for families who may be affected by an influenza like illness in the future.

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As you may know, your roommate has been sick and now is being isolated for what we are calling an “Influenza Like Illness.” This is not stating that your roommate has H1N1 or “Swine Flu,” but that they have presented with symptoms of a type of influenza.

Because you are living in close contact with your roommate, it is possible that you have already been exposed to the illness. If you have been exposed, you could start to develop symptoms in 1 to 4 days.

Please get plenty of rest, drink fluids and wash your hands frequently. Watch for any of the signs of “Influenza Like Illness” such as fever of greater than 100.0 and sore throat or cough. You may also experience muscles aches, fatigue, diarrhea, vomiting and dizziness. If you develop any of these symptoms, please contact your RD or Health Service immediately.

If you have not yet been exposed to the virus, there are some things you can do to help prevent getting it. First, use an anti-bacterial wipe to clean hard surfaces such as doorknobs, keyboards, beds, desks, etc. This will ensure that the virus is not lingering around waiting for you to pick it up. It is important to note that the influenza virus does not live for long periods of time outside of the body.

The most important thing you can do it stay rested, hydrated and keep washing your hands.

H1N1 Vaccine

Olivet has been approved to receive 2000 doses of the H1N1 vaccine. There is no cost to Olivet.

Priority will be given to current Olivet students, ages 18-24. The ONU Health Office is making arrangements to administer the shots in Conference Rooms B&C in Ludwig. The vaccine will arrive around Oct 22. Only one shot is required for this age group

Any remaining vaccine shots will be offered to ONU faculty and staff.