Flu Advice
The University of Tennessee is urging all students, faculty and staff to be proactive in dealing with all “Influenza Like Illness” (ILI) with the typical symptoms of fever, cough, and sore throat. The H1N1 flu virus (commonly referred to as “Swine Flu”) is particularly contagious. With the expectation that cases will continue to increase nationwide, UT officials are encouraging everyone to take the following actions to minimize the risk of contracting or transmitting H1N1.
- Wash your hands often with soap and warm water, especially after you cough or sneeze. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand gel.
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it. If a tissue is not available, cough into your shirt sleeve.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
- Wash your hands before eating.
- Do not share your food, drink, or utensils with others.
- Avoid close contact with sick people.
- The majority of individuals who contract this virus will not need to seek a doctor’s treatment. 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, you should limit contact with others and stay home from work or school and remain there until 24 hours after symptoms cease. A mild, lingering cough may occur. Barring any other flu symptoms, this cough should not prevent resumption of normal activities.
If the spread of H1N1 flu is significant, assume that faculty, staff, and students may be absent more often this fall than in typical years. These absences may very well be based upon symptoms and/or directives of the health department. Written documentation of H1N1 by a health care provider, such as the Student Health Service or community physicians, will not be available.
We are fortunate that to date the H1N1 strain has proven to be milder than initially expected. With appropriate planning to deal with the spread of H1N1, we hope to minimize disruptions.