What is H1N1? 

H1N1 (“swine flu”) is caused by a virus similar to regular (seasonal) flu.  The illness can cause fever, cough, sore throat, tiredness, body aches, chills and runny nose.  It first made the news in March 2009, originating in Mexico where it was passed from pigs to humans.  It eventually spread into the United States, and fortunately, most cases have been mild.

How does it spread?

H1N1 spreads when a sick person coughs or sneezes.  You can also get infected by touching something with the flu viruses on it and then touching your own mouth or nose.

How do I protect myself and others from H1N1?

• Don’t get to close to people who are sick.  If you get sick yourself, avoid close contact with other people.
• Cover your nose and mouth when you sneeze or cough.
• Most importantly remember to wash your hands well and frequently with soap and water or an alcohol-based hand cleaner.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
• Get vaccinated when the vaccine becomes available.

How is H1N1 different from seasonal flu?

It is different in the sense that the flu we usually see is seasonal and targets the elderly.  H1N1 tends to target the younger population.  Also, because it is a new virus it poses more of a threat due to the fact that people have not acquired any natural immunity.

What do I do if I develop flu-like symptoms?

Contact Health Services in Foreman Hall.  We will do an evaluation on you and offer solutions to help ease your symptoms.  It is not necessary to go the emergency room unless you have severe symptoms, such as:

• Trouble breathing or shortness of breath.
• Pain or pressure in the chest or stomach. 
• Bluish skin color or dizziness or confusion.

If you are pregnant or have health problems such as diabetes or asthma contact Health Services or your health care provider to see if you need medicine for the flu.  The medicine used to treat flu is an antiviral.  Antibiotics do not cure the flu.  NOTE:  Depending on your condition you may be asked to go home until your illness subsides.

Is there a vaccine to prevent H1N1?

Last year vaccine was been made available to colleges and universities, and our campus conducted several vaccination clinics.  This fall the seasonal flu vaccine will include H1N1 vaccine.  Following CDC guidelines flu vaccine is offered to those considered to be high risk first.  This includes students up to age 24, nursing students, health care workers, and students aged 25 to 64 years of age with medical conditions that put them at greater risk for complications from influenza. 

For more information on Influenza A (H1N1), see the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, New York State Department of Health Swine Influenza (H1N1) Questions and Answers and the www.flu.gov websites.

To speak with SUNY Delhi Health Services staff call 607-746-4690 or email us at healthservices@delhi.edu   Also, continue to watch this website for H1N1 updates.