Posted by University News Service

July 31, 2009

University officials continue to urge the campus community to use precautions to prevent the spread of H1N1 Influenza. Five confirmed cases of H1N1 Influenza have now been reported at Texas State University in students who attended summer camps.  These students were sent home and experienced mild to moderate illness. We received reports that they recovered quickly with no complications.  New cases of H1N1 Influenza continue to be reported across the state.  Summer camps across the state have increasingly reported cases of H1N1 Influenza.  The Student Health Center continues to work with camp coordinators, county and state health departments to monitor for H1N1 Influenza and to assist with response measures.

In an effort to prevent the spread of influenza, persons who develop a flu-like illness should stay home and avoid contact with others for seven days and until free of fever and other symptoms for at least 24 hours. If you are planning to attend a summer camp at Texas State but are exhibiting flu-like symptoms, you are urged to remain at home. If you are attending a summer camp at Texas State and develop a flu-like illness, you will be asked to return home.

Persons who are at higher risk for complications from influenza, including pregnant women and those with chronic medical conditions such as asthma, diabetes, heart disease and suppressed immune systems, should seek medical attention if they develop a flu-like illness.

Symptoms of H1N1 Influenza are similar to those of seasonal flu and may include:

• Fever > 100° F
• Cough
• Sore throat
• Body aches
• Diarrhea/Vomiting

To prevent the spread of H1N1 Influenza, please follow these recommendations:

• Persons who develop a flu-like illness should stay home for seven days and until symptom-free for 24 hours.
• Persons who become ill should avoid contact with other people as much as possible.
• Cover your mouth and nose with tissue or your arm sleeve when coughing or sneezing. Use the tissue only once then discard.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially before touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

Students with a flu-like illness may contact the Student Health Center at 245-2167 for self-care advice or an appointment.  For more information about H1N1 Influenza, visit the Texas Department of State Health Services website at http://www.dshs.state.tx.us/swineflu/default.shtm or the CDC website at http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/general_info.htm.