Swine Flu Update to All U.Va. Students from Dr. James C. Turner, M.D.

August 23, 2009

Dear U.Va. students:

Novel H1N1 flu, also known as swine flu, has become more prevalent across the United States in recent months. It also caused illness in a significant number of students here for the summer.

While we cannot predict future cases, it is likely we will see more cases. We are remaining vigilant, especially because this flu is infecting 19- to 24-year-olds at a disproportionately high rate. We will continue to keep you apprised of this and any other health-related concerns.

We encourage all students to check our Student Health Web site for information and news about flu. The Web site will be updated daily if necessary to provide you with the latest information.

For the next few months, before vaccine is available, the only prevention available is common sense. Remember, it is important that you:

• Cover your cough
• Wash your hands often. Carry alcohol-based hand cleanser with you and use it often.
• Don't share drinking glasses, eating utensils, pillows, or smoking materials.
• Reduce germs on surfaces you may touch by doing a quick, daily wipe-down of your telephone, keyboard, doorknobs, and surfaces such as desks. Any household cleaner or wipe is effective.

What to do if you develop flu-like symptoms (which include headache, chills, body aches, fatigue, dry cough, sore throat, stuffy nose) and a fever:

• Stay in your room and don't go out.
• Go to our Web site under the H1N1 (Swine Flu) section and review the "Information for Students" slide set. This will provide guidance about self-isolation and treatment as well as how and when to call Student Health.

Vaccine against both seasonal and novel H1N1 flu viruses should be available sometime this fall. Student Health is developing plans to make both available to U.Va. students. We hope to schedule large vaccine clinics starting in early November depending on vaccine supplies. We will communicate further details through our Web site and via e-mail.

Student Health rarely sends out mass e-mails, and we will continue to be judicious about using this as a means of communicating with students. It is particularly important this year that you open and read all e-mails coming from Student Health. This is the most expeditious means of delivering important health information to you.

My best wishes for a healthy and productive school year.

James C. Turner, M.D.
Executive Director, Department of Student Health