Archive of Updates

April 30, 2009

Swine Flu (H1N1) Update from Birkam Health Center

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) continues to report and update the public on the spread of the swine flu (H1N1) virus in the United States and around the globe. There are two confirmed cases in Michigan and there will undoubtedly be additional confirmed cases in the next few days.

The World Health Organization (WHO) raised the Pandemic Security Index from Phase 4 to Phase 5 on Wednesday. This means that government agencies, institutions, and health and pharmaceutical entities in all countries should activate their pandemic preparedness plans. It also signals that a pandemic flu could be imminent.

Ferris State University health and safety officials are meeting daily. In addition, Ferris personnel are meeting with local and county disaster response officials to make final plans in case of an outbreak in Mecosta County. The Ferris Communicable Diseases Committee will be meeting on Friday.

There have been no reported cases of swine flu (H1N1) on campus. No changes in University operations or activities are currently in effect. It is widely thought that we are more prepared locally and nationally to manage a pandemic event than ever before and that preparation, readiness and education are essential to addressing such an event.

While the flu situation is serious and there is reason to be concerned, there is no reason to be alarmed or panicked. It is important to take the health precautions, especially frequent hand-washing, that we have reported here previously. All students, faculty and staff in the Ferris community should remain vigilant about their health.

The symptoms of swine flu (H1N1) in people are very similar to symptoms of regular seasonal flu, including fever, lethargy, lack of appetite, body aches and coughing. Some people are reporting runny nose, sore throat, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.

If you feel you are ill and have some of the above symptoms, you are advised to stay home and contact your health care provider.

Please see the previous Birkam Health Center notice, dated Wednesday, April 28, 2009, for preventative actions which you can use yourself. Birkam Health Center will provide local updates as often as needed at http://www.ferris.edu/htmls/studentlife/hcenter/april-28-Archive.htm.

Birkam Health Center is following the criteria issued by the Michigan Department of Community Health for testing of swine influenza A (H1N1) virus.

A suspect case of swine influenza A (H1N1) is defined as:

  • A person with an acute respiratory illness who was a close contact to a confirmed case of swine influenza A (H1N1) virus infection while the individual was ill; or
  • A person with an acute respiratory illness with a recent history of contact with an animal with confirmed or suspected swine influenza A (H1N1) virus infection; or
  • A person with an acute respiratory illness who has traveled to an area where there are confirmed cases of swine influenza A (H1N1) within seven days of suspect caseýs illness onset. 

Testing is also advised for individuals with influenza-like illnesses defined as a fever of more than 100 degrees with either a cough or sore throat.

If you are having flu-like symptoms, please contact the Birkam Health Center at (231) 591-2614 or your family physician for further direction. We will continue to provide updated information and links to key resources on a continual basis.

 

Paul Sullivan, Ph.D., LPC
Director, Birkam Health and Counseling Centers
Ferris State University