Novel H1N1 Influenza Virus Updates

Influenza-like illness (ILI) has now established itself on the Ferris State Campus. 

 ILI includes seasonal influenza and novel H1N1 influenza.  Two cases of H1N1 flu have been identified by the Health Center and both patients are recovering.  A number of additional patients also meet the diagnostic criteria for H1N1.  Symptoms of H1N1 flu include fever of 100'F or higher, cough, sore throat, runny nose, body aches, head-ache, chills and fatigue.  Some people have had vomiting and diarrhea.

The diagnostic protocols for identifying H1N1 are complex.  Only a few health care providers (Health Center is one) and hospitals in the country have been specifically testing as H1N1 Sentinel Reporting Sites for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.  Because H1N1 is now so prevalent in the country, health authorities have limited even such sites as the Health Center to only two or three of these tests per month, and they have advised us to proceed with medical evaluation as if we are dealing with H1N1 in every case of influenza-like illness (ILI) Type A Flu.

The number of ILI cases meeting H1N1 criteria was averaging about six students per week since school started. Since Monday, September 28, the number of ILI cases has averaged 10 per day.  About 100 students per day are being seen at the Health Center for all types of illnesses.   Those students with ILI are being treated as H1N1 and all are being given flu kits with various treatment items included.

There are periods each day when the Health Center is at capacity.  Some students are being offered several alternatives such as waiting longer to be seen, returning later or the next day, or being referred to another provider.  Some nurse triaging in person or by phone is occurring.  There have been additional students with symptoms the flu but they could not be established as H1N1 cases because temperature of 100'F or higher could not be confirmed.   The Health Center has supplied Residence Life with disposable thermometers.

If you are a student with flu-like symptoms, to be sure, we do want to talk with you or see you in person.

There is nothing mandatory in effect about this illness on our campus. No student is required to do or not do anything in spite of rumors.  Students are being encouraged to seek medical care if sick with symptoms of the flu.  Students are being encouraged not to attend classes, activities, or events if they have the flu.  Students are not being denied access to anything including housing and dining.  

Here are some additional guidelines and more information about current flu conditions:

1. Students with ILI are being asked to voluntarily isolate themselves in their room or go home if they have ability to do so.  The Health Center is directing ILI patients in residence halls to ask a roommate or suitemate to obtain meals at a dining center.  Housing and Dining Service are teaming up to provide this service.
2. The flu is still mild for the most part, lasting only a few days.  Symptoms of seasonal flu and H1N1 flu are difficult to tell apart.  Keep in mind that the typical seasonal flu begins in early October.
3. There are still a few doses of seasonal flu vaccine remaining at the Health Center for students and employees.   Please call the Health Center at 591-2614 for more information.
4. The Health Department has received our request for H1N1 vaccine for students and employees.  Depending on the quantity of vaccine that we initially receive, it will be first administered to the high priority groups such as pregnant women, those with medical conditions, parents and care givers of children six and younger, as well as clinical care givers and emergency responders.   We expect that sufficient quantities of vaccine will eventually be available for everyone.
5. Please review the Birkam Health Center site www.ferris.edu/birkamhealthcenter for resources, more information regarding flu signs and symptoms, as well as care and treatment of the flu. 
6. If you have questions or concerns, contact Paul Sullivan at sullivap@ferris.edu or Cande Price at pricec6@ferris.edu at the Health Center (591-2614).

Take these everyday steps to protect your health:

• 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. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand rub.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread this way.
• Try to avoid close contact with sick people.
• If you are sick with flu-like illness, CDC recommends that you stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever is gone without fever-reducing medicines. Stay away from others as much as possible to keep from making others sick.