August 4, 2009
H1N1 Influenza (Swine Flu) Update
UNC Asheville
officials continue to monitor the H1N1 influenza virus (swine flu) through
collaboration with the Buncombe County Health Center, N.C. Department of
Health and Human Services and UNC General Administration. Meanwhile, the
University's health service providers are following the most up-to-date
clinical guidelines for testing, treatment and control practices of the H1N1
influenza, which provide the best overall protection for our campus
community.
In addition, the University is implementing a comprehensive plan to
proactively address the potential health issues which could impact our
campus during the fall and winter flu season. You can do your part by
continuing to practice these basic wellness guidelines:
-- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw
the tissue in the trash after you use it.
-- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or
sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective
-- Avoid spreading germs by not touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
-- If you experience fever, cough and/or sore throat, contact your health
care provider right away. As a reminder, students may visit UNC Asheville
Health Services for free.
-- Current recommendations dictate that health care providers ask anyone
experiencing the above symptoms to stay home for a minimum of seven days
after the onset of the first symptom or for at least 24 hours after the last
symptom is gone, whichever is longest.
Additionally, the U.S. Government is aggressively taking steps to supply the
nation with the H1N1 influenza vaccine. The Buncombe Health Center will be
the source of the H1N1 influenza vaccine for our campus. Watch your email
and the University's home page for information about the availability of the
vaccine in coming weeks.
Health Services will also again offer the routine seasonal influenza vaccine
to all students beginning in October for a small fee. Faculty and staff may
receive a flu shot from their health care provider or through campus flu
shot clinics hosted by Blue Cross-Blue Shield of North Carolina this fall.
If you have any questions, call UNC Asheville's Health Services at
828/251-6520 or click on
www.unca.edu/news/flu.html.
Jay Cutspec
UNC Asheville
Director Student Health and Counseling
828/251-6868
