Montclair State University

Federal health officials are continuing to take aggressive action to respond to the outbreak of H1N1 flu (swine flu) in the United States. Although more cases are being confirmed in more states around the U.S., health officials say that the symptoms of the disease are generally mild and that the available antiviral treatments are effective. The most up-to-date information on the status of the H1N1 flu is maintained by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and may be found on the CDC Web site at:http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/.

As of May 4, the CDC has reported seven laboratory-confirmed cases in New Jersey. There are no confirmed or suspected cases involving members of the Montclair State University or surrounding communities.

Montclair State University has implemented all of the CDC recommendations for higher education institutions. Specifically, the University Health Center is prepared to screen, treat, and track patients with flu-like symptoms and is working closely with the University Emergency Response Team to monitor the status of the H1NI flu outbreak. Steps have also been taken to emphasize the cleaning of bacteria-prone areas such as door handles, hand rails, elevator buttons, and faucets in daily building cleanings, and provide information to our community on hand and cough hygiene as preventive measures.

Here are some flu prevention tips:

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze.
• Alcohol-based hand cleaners containing at least 60% alcohol are also effective.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
• Stay home if you get sick. Limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
• If you develop flu-like symptoms, call your private healthcare provider or the University Health Center at 973-655-4361 for instructions.

The CDC also provides the following Web resources:

• General Information:  www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/general_info.htm
• What You Can Do to Stay Healthy: www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/#stay_healthy
• Alert for Institutions of Higher Education: http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/college-alert.htm
• What’s New: www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/whatsnew.htm
  

Information about the H1N1 flu and protective measures can also be found at the University Health Center Web site at www.montclair.edu/health/hc/.

Questions can be sent to askanurse@mail.montclair.edu.

We will continue to keep you updated during this health emergency via email and Web postings.

Article Entered Into News System: Monday, May 4 2009
Article Last Edited: Monday, May 4 2009