H1N1 Flu Declared to be a Pandemic
The World Health Organization (WHO) on June 11, 2009 declared the global outbreak of H1N1 (Novel Influenza A) to be a pandemic, raising the international health alert to Level 6. The move by WHO was made in response to the geographic spread of the virus around the globe, even though the illness has remained mild to moderate in the majority of cases. For the latest figures for Orange County, check the web site for the Orange County Health Care Agency at http://ochealthinfo.com/epi/H1N1/bos/index.htm.
CSUF Update
Due to the continued world-wide spread of the H1N1 virus, the World Health Organization has recommended and the Orange County Public Health Department has determined that any patients with flu-like symptoms (fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, fatigue, and in some cases diarrhea and vomiting) will be presumed to have the H1N1 virus. Based on these actions, the University will no longer have the ability in most instances to inform faculty, staff and/or students of specific incidents where they may have come in contact with someone with the H1N1 virus.
The Orange County Health Care Agency recommends that anyone experiencing these symptoms only contact their personal physician or health care provider if symptoms persist or worsen or if they have an underlying medical condition. Mild infections usually do not require medical attention. Typical care may include acetaminophen or ibuprofen for fever, drinking enough liquids to prevent dehydration, and getting adequate bed rest. Indications of a more serious illness that might need immediate medical care include: difficulty breathing; severe vomiting; excessive drowsiness; and a fever more than 100 degrees, especially in young children, the elderly and those with chronic medical conditions.
Faculty, staff and students are encouraged to wash their hands carefully and often; sneeze and cough into tissues or clothing; eat healthy; exercise; get plenty of rest; and avoid those who are sick.
The university will continue to monitor the spread and severity of the H1N1 virus and take appropriate actions as necessary to respond to this on-going health issue. If you have any questions, please contact Tom Whitfield, Director of Environmental Health & Instructional Safety, at 657-278-4346
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