September 21, 2009
Swine Flu Update

Students, Faculty, and Staff,

The status and information regarding the H1N1 influenza virus continues to evolve across all regions of the United States. The number of patients with influenza like illness (ILIs) is expected to increase over the coming weeks. The southern region of the U.S. continues to have the highest incidence of individuals with ILI due to students returning to school earlier than other regions of the country.
UNC Asheville has been fortunate to have a minimum number of cases reported to health services. As of September 15, 2009 there have been four students and four staff members who have reported influenza like illness (ILIs). These data have been reported weekly to the Buncombe County Health Center and UNC General Administration.

Students and staff are encouraged to follow the standard precautions of hand hygiene, respiratory etiquette, and to self isolate if exhibiting influenza like symptoms. The current CDC recommendation is to isolate for a period of 24 hours after the fever breaks, without the use of fever reducing medications.

UNC Asheville officials are maintaining contact with the Buncombe County Health Center regarding the availability of the H1N1 vaccine. We are prepared to offer the vaccine to students (between the ages of 17 and 24) and high risk populations , as recommended by the CDC. The vaccine is expected to be available in late October.

It is recommended that students get the regular influenza vaccine, as soon as possible. Therefore, health services will be providing flu shot clinics at the Highsmith Union the week of September 20th for a nominal fee.

For the most accurate and updated information, students, staff and faculty are encouraged to visit the following websites:
http://www.flu.gov
http://www.cdc.gov/
http://www.epi.state.nc.us/epi/gcdc/fluhome.htm

Jay Cutspec
UNC Asheville
Director Student Health and Counseling
828-251-6868