This update was provided to the community on Tuesday, April 28. Visit the H1N1 main page for the most recent updates.

 

Keene State health, safety, and medical professionals are closely monitoring the outbreak of H1N1 (swine influenza) in the U.S. and internationally.

The New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services, in collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control and the World Health Organization, updates Keene State College's Center for Health and Wellness frequently as information develops. Please check the Keene State College home page for updates.

Information you need to know:

• H1N1 is a respiratory illness in pigs caused by type A influenza viruses. Most commonly, human cases of swine flu occur in people who are around pigs, but the current strain is now being transmitted from person to person.
• There is no vaccine available at this time for this type of flu.
• Use common-sense preventive measures to avoid becoming sick with this or any other illness and to prevent spreading it to others.
• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, cover your mouth with your sleeve when you cough or sneeze, and throw tissue into the trash after you have used it.
• Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
• Stay home from work or school if you are sick.
• Avoid contact with sick people.
• The symptoms of swine flu in people are similar to the symptoms of regular human flu and include fever greater than 100F, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills, and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with swine flu.
• Severe illness (pneumonia and respiratory failure) and deaths have been reported with swine flu infection in people.
• Swine flu may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions.
• Swine flu is not transmitted by eating pork.
• It is important to stay informed. You can access more information at
  Centers for Disease Control and the N.H. Department of Health and Human Services

If you are a student experiencing flu-like symptoms, contact the Center for Health and Wellness at 358-2450 between the hours of 8:00 - 4:30 pm. In the evening or weekends, contact Cheshire Medical Center Emergency Room 354-6600.

If you are a staff or faculty member experiencing flu-like symptoms, contact your primary care provider.

Additional Resources

• Swine Flu Information Page
• Preventing Swine Flu Infection
• Pandemic Flu Information
• Swine Flu Guide for Parents (PDF)