Four UND students tested positive for H1N1 Flu Four UND students who were treated at Student Health Services have tested positive for H1N1 flu. Community providers have also identified confirmed cases of H1N1 flu. Since the Centers for Disease Control estimates that there are over one million cases of H1N1 flu, it is not surprising that we would have confirmed cases in our community and at UND. The students are being treated according to protocols established in consultation with Grand Forks Public Health, the North Dakota Department of Health and the Centers for Disease Control. Most people with H1N1 (swine) or seasonal flu can recover at home with little or no medical attention. UND reminds students, faculty and staff to monitor their health. If you become ill, avoid contact with others for at least 24 hours after fever subsides (without the help of fever reducing medicine). UND students with flu-like symptoms are asked to call Student Health Services first as they may not require an office visit which could potentially expose others to the flu virus. The number to call is 777-4500. UND faculty and staff may contact their own health care providers. What should I do if I get the flu? Should I seek health care services if I am sick with the flu? Most people with H1N1 (swine) or seasonal flu can recover at home with little or no medical attention. However, those who are at higher risk of serious complications should consult a health care provider if they develop flu-like symptoms or if they have had recent close contact with someone who has the flu. High risk groups include people of any age with certain chronic medical conditions, including: - Asthma - Diabetes - Immune-suppression - Heart, lung, liver or kidney disease - Persons younger than 19 years of age who are receiving long term aspirin therapy - Pregnant women - Adults 65 years of age and older - Children younger than 5 years of age Symptoms of the flu can include: - Fever of > 100° - Cough and/or sore throat - Runny or stuffy nose - Headache and/or body aches - Chills - Fatigue - With H1N1 (swine) flu, you may also have vomiting and diarrhea Get medical attention right away if you: - Have difficulty breathing or chest pain - Have purple or blue discoloration of your lips - Are vomiting and unable to keep liquids down - Show signs of dehydration, such as feeling dizzy when standing or being unable to urinate. - Have seizures - Are less responsive than normal or become confused If you become ill, avoid contact with others for at least 24 hours after fever subsides (without the help of fever reducing medicine). Wear a mask during periods where contact with others is unavoidable. Those who need to seek care are asked to call first. UND students may call Student Health Services at 701.777.4500. UND faculty and staff may contact their own health care providers. Immunization is the best protection against the flu. For UND seasonal flu vaccination clinic schedule go to www.undstudenthealth.com. This will protect you against the most common types of seasonal flu and help keep you healthy all winter. A seasonal flu vaccination will not protect you against Novel N1N1 (swine) flu. Novel H1N1 vaccine is expected in early November. Please watch for more information. Studies show 73% of flu can be prevented by practicing these 5 key habits: 1. Cover Your Cough 2. Clean Your Hands Frequently 3. Avoid Touching Your Eyes, Nose and Mouth 4. Keep Your Distance (3-6 Feet) From Sick People 5. Stay Home When You’re Sick For more information, go to www.flu.gov.