Flu Season Preparedness and Planning
Heald is preparing for seasonal and H1N1 flu outbreaks.
Heald College has been carefully following the news regarding
H1N1 flu, utilizing the Center for Disease Control (CDC) Web
site as our main source for information. With the flu
season quickly approaching, Heald is taking steps to prevent,
minimize and respond to outbreaks of both seasonal and novel
H1N1.
H1N1 (referred to as “swine flu” early on) is
a new influenza virus causing illness in people. This new
virus was first detected in people in the United States in
April 2009. This virus is spreading from person-to-person
worldwide, probably in much the same way that regular seasonal
influenza viruses spread.
Heald's approach, unless conditions change, is to treat
those infected with the H1N1 virus and the seasonal flu in
the same manner because the symptoms and the currently recommended
approach to prevention and treatment are similar. Heald's
efforts are designed to decrease exposure to regular seasonal
flu and 2009 H1N1 flu while maintaining regular day-to-day
operations and routine campus activities. Current attendance
policies as published in the Heald College Academic Catalog
continue to apply.
Heald has routine cleaning protocols in place for its facilities
and continues to emphasize that these protocols be followed
at all locations. This includes frequent cleaning of high-touch
surfaces throughout the work or learning environment. Hand
sanitizer dispensers are accessible in classrooms and offices
when cleansing with soap and water is not convenient.
Flu Prevention
Vaccination is the most powerful tool in preventing spread
of flu. There are two different vaccines for this year, one
for seasonal flu and the other for H1N1. While seasonal flu
vaccine is already starting to be distributed, it is anticipated
that H1N1 vaccinations will not begin until mid-October.
Students, faculty and staff should continue to take
the following precautions to prevent the spread of infection:
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough
or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash.
- Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially
after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are
also effective. Sanitizers have been placed in locations throughout
campus. If there is a location you feel needs a sanitizer
installed, please contact the safety director on your campus.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.
- Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
If you're sick with the flu or have flu symptoms:
- Stay home for at least 24 hours after you no longer
have a fever, or signs of a fever, without the use of fever-reducing
medicines. People infected with seasonal and 2009 H1N1 flu
may be able to infect others from a day before getting sick
to seven days after experiencing flu symptoms.
- Stay away from classes and limit interactions with
other people, except to seek medical care.
- Get a “flu buddy,” pairing up with another
student to deliver your assignments and make contact with
instructors if you're ill.
H1N1
The symptoms of H1N1 flu are similar to those caused by the
usual strains of influenza virus and include fever over 100
degrees orally plus other symptoms such as:
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Muscle aches
- Headache
- Fatigue
- And occasionally, stomach symptoms such as nausea,
vomiting or diarrhea
Additional Information
Heald College places a high priority on encouraging good health
habits and recognizes the importance of maintaining a healthy
work and learning environment. With your assistance in following
the directives and recommendations provided, Heald hopes to
minimize the spread of serious illness at our campuses and
CAO.
For more information, please contact:
Vickie Saling
Heald Corporate Safety Coordinator
vickie_saling@heald.edu
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