The 411 on H1N1

Marcia NickleEmergency Preparedness Coordinator

Campus and Public Safety

Influenza: The Signs and Symptoms• Respiratory virus (not stomach “flu”)• Influenza strains change slightly each year• Symptoms– Fever (over 100° F)– Cough– Headaches and body aches– Severe fatigue– Runny Nose– Sore Throat– Gastrointestinal issues– Nausea or Vomiting

Transmission of Influenza

• Coughing or Sneezing• Direct contact with: – Person with symptoms (6 feet)– Contaminated surface (2-8 hours)

• Individuals are contagious from 1 day BEFORE symptoms to upwards of 7 days after symptoms

• Incubation period – 1 to 7 days• Monitor for symptoms

Treatment for Influenza

• Rest• Plenty of fluids• Tylenol/Acetaminophen for pain/fever• Antiviral medications– Given to those with a high risk of influenza

complications, severely ill or hospitalized– Should be given within 2 days of onset of

symptoms for maximum effectiveness

What the University is Doing to Prepare for H1N1’s Return

• Faculty consultations on alternate forms of teaching (online)

• Adherence to State of Delaware Public Health and CDC guidance

• Developing and updating emergency plans on H1N1

• “H1N1: 411” webpage with all the latest information on H1N1

What the University is Doing to Prepare for H1N1’s Return

Educational Campaign• Posters across campus

• Informational pamphlets

• Student information/question and answer session

Seasonal Flu Vaccination Program

• States are expecting deliveries of seasonal flu vaccines earlier (late September) than usual (mid to end of October)

• UD plans to hold flu clinics as soon as we receive the vaccine and do the clinics in multiple locations across campus

H1N1 Vaccination Program

• States are expecting deliveries of the H1N1 vaccine in November/December

• UD is prepared to deliver the H1N1 vaccine in the priority order given by CDC:– Pregnant women– Caregivers of infants 6 months and younger– Health care and EMS personnel– Children/young adults age 6 months to 24 years– Adults 25 to 64 years with chronic medical

conditions

What can you do?• Get the seasonal flu shot• Sign up for UD Alert• Stay home if you are sick• Wash hands or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer

frequently• Cover mouth with arm when sneezing or coughing• Don’t go back to class or to group events until you

are fever free for 24 hours (without Tylenol)• Communicate the above to your residents

Stay Healthy!

Marcia NickleEmergency Preparedness Coordinator

831-0383mnickle@udel.edu