| Aug. 26, 2009
Syracuse University continues to monitor developments related to the spread of flu-both the common seasonal flu and the H1N1 flu virus (popularly known as "swine flu"). The University's goal is to work with all members of the community to reduce the effects of flu and flu-like illness, while maintaining the academic mission and business functions of the campus.
Members of SU's multi-departmental Pandemic Flu Preparedness Task Force convene regularly on flu planning, and task force representatives met recently with Onondaga County Health Department officials for the latest in an ongoing dialogue.
In addition, last week the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued new guidance for colleges and universities ( http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/schools/) that is currently being reviewed by University officials for possible modifications to the University's flu strategies.
Widespread flu-like illness is expected over the next several months, with H1N1 flu intermingling with seasonal ("regular") flu during 2009-10. Based on current information from health officials, H1N1-specific testing will not be routinely available, so it is unlikely that health professionals will know whether a specific individual with flu-like symptoms is ill with seasonal flu or H1N1.
Based on the current behavior of H1N1 in the Southern Hemisphere, H1N1 is expected to cause mild to moderate (rather than severe) illness in most persons infected with this virus in the United States this fall.
All students, faculty and staff are encouraged to receive the seasonal flu vaccine (a "flu shot"). Opportunities to obtain the flu vaccine will be available on and off campus beginning in early fall and continuing while supplies last. Information on vaccine availability will be posted on this website.
When H1N1 vaccine becomes available, the University anticipates it will be administered on campus to eligible (based on criteria established by the CDC) students. Opportunities for faculty and staff to receive the vaccine will be available in the community.
All persons 65 years and older, and persons younger than 65 years who have certain medical conditions, should receive the Pneumovax 23 vaccine from their health care provider (if they have not already done so) to reduce the risk of pneumonia following infection with H1N1.
Persons who are ill with flu-like symptoms will typically be advised to stay at home or in their residence hall room until 24 hours after fever (100 degrees Fahrenheit or 38 degrees Celsius) symptoms abate without the aid of fever-reducing medications. Individuals with flu-like symptoms may be advised to wear a mask when it is necessary to be in public places, such as a dining hall.
At this time, the University does not anticipate closure or severe disruption of the academic year due to H1N1, although planning is taking place to diminish the impact of potential interruptions of work or services due to faculty and staff illness, the necessity for faculty and staff to care for ill family members, and similar situations.
All members of the University community should practice good hygiene such as proper hand washing, cough etiquette and other flu mitigation strategies. Individuals are also encouraged to take personal responsibility for the sanitization of frequently/commonly used surfaces such as doorknobs, keyboards, copiers, remote controls and desks within their personal living, learning and work areas to minimize the transmission of virus. Hand sanitizing products are available for purchase by schools/colleges/departments from Materials Distribution through the Materials Distribution Online Ordering System (http://mdoos.syr.edu/).
In addition, students should ask instructors about class attendance policies, and faculty and staff should work with their school/college/department to review policies regarding flexible work, paid time off, leaves of absence, and expectations for continuity of operations and services.
Following are contacts that are available to respond to flu-related questions on specific topics:
Additional information on seasonal flu and the H1N1 flu virus will be provided to the University community via e-mail, this website and other forms of communication as the information becomes available.
Sincerely, Dr. James R. Jacobs, M.D., Ph.D., FACEP Director of University Health Services Co-chair, Pandemic Flu Preparedness Task Force
David E. Pajak, ARM Director of Risk Management, Environmental Health and Safety Chief Emergency Management Officer Co-chair, Pandemic Flu Preparedness Task Force |
