Preparations for H1N1/Flu Season Underway

Preparations for H1N1/Flu Season UnderwayCal State San Marcos continues to work closely with the San Diego County Health and Human Services to monitor information related to the H1N1 virus (swine flu). The University's preparations for the upcoming flu season reflect their recommendations as well as those of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). We understand the serious nature of this public health emergency and are paying special attention to the health and well being of our University Community. The flu can be spread easily from person to person.  It's important that you take the necessary actions to protect yourself and others. The following are some suggestions for everyday steps people can take to stay healthy:Practice good hand hygiene by washing your hands with soap and water especially after coughing or sneezing. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also 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. 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 the flu or flu-like illness for at least 24 hours after you no longer have a fever (100 degrees Fahrenheit) 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 medications (any medicine that contains ibuprofen or acetaminophen). Don't go to class or work.Talk with your health care providers about whether you should be vaccinated for seasonal flu. Also, if you are at higher risk for flu complications from 2009 H1N1 flu, you should consider getting the H1N1 vaccine when it becomes available. 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.Help educate the campus community. Spread the word among your colleagues and students about regular hand washings, covering your cough, and staying home when sick. If possible, please print and post this flyer in and around your office or work area: www.cdc.gov/flu/protect/pdf/covercough_school8-5x11.pdf.We will keep you updated with new information as it becomes available on the campus H1N1 flu website, visit www.csusm.edu/em/Alert.