H1N1 and College Students

The information analyzed by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) supports the conclusion that novel H1N1 flu has caused greater disease burden in people younger than 25 years of age than older people. Given the impact on the younger population, as well as the close confines of classrooms and residences on a university campus, college-age students are encouraged to follow CDC guidelines listed below to prevent the transmission of the virus.

How does novel H1N1 virus spread? 


Spread of novel H1N1 virus is thought to occur in the same way that seasonal flu spreads. Flu viruses are spread mainly from person to person through coughing or sneezing by people with influenza. Sometimes people may become infected by touching something – such as a surface or object – with flu viruses on it and then touching their mouth or nose.

Preventative measures can be found here.

IF YOU GET FLU-LIKE SYMPTOMS:

Contact your physician or Belmont’s Health Services immediately.

Residents: Please notify a university staff member, a residence life staff member or Belmont’s Health Services immediately.

Following recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Belmont asks that anyone with flu-like symptoms (fever over 100 degrees, cough, sore throat, body aches, chills and fatigue) stay home from work or class and limit contact with others to prevent additional infections.