August 27, 2009
To the DePauw Community:
We write to update you on the University's interventions regarding the H1N1 flu virus (also known as swine flu).
For many years, DePauw has had emergency plans in place to address wide-ranging campus issues and health concerns. We have extended these preparedness efforts in order to respond to the H1N1 pandemic. Our emergency response teams receive regular input from the Putnam County Health Department and include members from Health Services, Student Life, Academic Affairs, the Department of Public Safety, Emergency Management and many others. Our general Pandemic Plan can be accessed via the web.
The H1N1 pandemic flu is widespread throughout the world. Fortunately, the vast majority of cases are mild and, at this point, the H1N1 virus appears no more virulent or severe than most seasonal flus. This strain does seem to be more frequent in children and young adults.
Cases of H1N1 have already appeared on many college campuses, however we have not had a positive case yet at DePauw. We should expect to see cases this fall, and strongly encourage all members of the DePauw community to take the standard precautions adopted during the flu season-and to play an active role in our public health prevention efforts.
Classes and Activities
Classes and other activities at DePauw will continue as scheduled this semester. The emergency response teams will monitor the campus situation, working with the Putnam County Health Department, and make recommendations regarding changes in or cancellations of campus activities on the basis of any flu outbreak. The Administration will make any decisions regarding the cancellation of classes or other activities. Any such decision will be communicated broadly to faculty, students and staff through email and other communications.
Public Health Precautions
It is important for all faculty, staff, and students to take the following flu/respiratory disease precautions:
- Avoid contact with ill persons
- Cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze
- Throw used tissues in the trash
- Do not share food, drink, or utensils
- Wash your hands with soap and water frequently-particularly after you sneeze-or use an alcohol-based hand gel / sanitizer.
Treatment and Response
The majority of individuals who contract this virus will NOT need to seek a doctor's treatment. Faculty and staff who are ill with flu should remain at home and students who are ill with the flu should remain in their room for 24 hours after they are fever-free to limit the spread of the virus. A mild, lingering cough may occur. Barring any other flu symptoms, this cough should not prevent students from returning to class or employees to work. Employees should refer to the Sick Time Policy which can be found in the Employee Guide.
If you have been in contact with someone who has the flu, onset of the virus can take up to three days. If you experience any flu symptoms within this time period, please stay home to limit the spread of the virus. If you are pregnant or if you have a chronic medical condition such as diabetes, cancer, asthma, heart or lung problems, or a weakened immune system, you should consult with your physician or if you are a student with campus health services to see if Tamiflu is needed.
Medication and Vaccinations
Generally, Tamiflu is prescribed for individuals with flu who are either hospitalized, have a chronic medical condition (as listed above), or have a suppressed immune system. Tamiflu for influenza is not a cure and only reduces symptoms and decreases length of recovery time by about 24 hours.
The following vaccinations are expected to be available fall 2009:
Seasonal Flu Vaccine: We expect to have a supply of the seasonal flu vaccine by early October.
H1N1 Vaccine: Recent recommendations from the CDC have placed individuals under age 24 in the top priority group for receiving the H1N1 vaccine. For current information about the availability of vaccines, please see the information on the Health Services Web site.
Additional Information
More information on the H1N1 flu is available on the following websites:
Students and parents who have questions may contact the Wellness Center (765) 658-4555.
Thank you for your efforts to keep all members of the DePauw Community in good health. Although we can't eliminate the spread of this virus, our collective efforts can significantly minimize its reach and overall impact.
Sincerely,
Cindy Babington
Vice President for Student Life and Dean of Students
David Harvey
Vice President for Academic Affairs
Jana Grimes
Executive Director of Human Resources
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