General Information
According to the Centers for Disease Control, the symptoms of H1N1 flu virus in people are similar to the symptoms of seasonal flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. A significant number of people who have been infected with H1N1 flu virus also have reported diarrhea and vomiting. Seasonal flu usually lasts four to five days, but the H1N1 flu typically has a shorter duration.
If symptoms persist, residential students should contact the Rollins Health Services at 407-646-2235 to schedule an appointment for further evaluation. Faculty and staff who experience these symptoms should contact their health care provider for further advice.
More Information for Residential Students
More Information for the Campus Community
Recommendations
We encourage students, faculty and staff to take advantage of the flu vaccines offered by the health center this fall. While these shots do NOT protect against H1N1, they will limit susceptibility to other strains of flu. When the H1N1 flu vaccine being developed becomes available, we will inform you about the vaccinations.
In the meantime, simple and highly effective measures against the spread of a common cold or flu virus include:
- Carry a bottle of hand sanitizer with you and use it before eating or touching your face.
- Wash your hands with warm water and soap several times a day, especially after using the restroom.
- Cover your mouth with a tissue when you cough. Sneeze into your sleeve or toward the ground (when you sneeze into your hand then touch a door knob or shake a hand, you're spreading germs).
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth. The virus often causes infection when it comes in contact with the eyes nose or mouth—this is how it enters the body. Keeping your hands away from these areas will reduce your chances of contracting the flu.
- Use a paper towel to turn the doorknob when leaving a public restroom then discard the paper towel.
