Important Information for Students, Faculty, on H1N1 (Swine Flu) Epidemic

Dr. Steven Roberts, COD College Physician has issued guidelines for faculty, staff and students at COD, designed to help avoid the spread of the H1N1 virus known as the Swine Flu. While some media reports indicate the flu is a milder form than first thought, there are more cases being reported and there is a need to take precautions. Dr. Roberts has provided several links to web information, along with a document (see Attachments, below, at bottom) for your review:

A comprehensive source for information on the epidemic including symptoms, precautions, and potential treatments, can be found at the California Department of Public Health Website.

For faculty and staff and parents of children at the COD Child Development Center, Dr. Roberts has released a pdf file (see Attachments, below, bottom) containing a brochure that has been sent to the Child Center staff.

Here are some basic precautions to take:

• 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 hand cleaners are also effective.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
• Stay home if you are sick for 7 days after your symptoms begin or until you have been symptom-free for 24 hours, whichever is longer. This is to keep from infecting others and spreading the virus further.
• If you have severe illness or you are at high risk for flu complications, contact your health care provider or seek medical care. Your health care provider will determine whether flu testing or treatment is needed.