University tracking for extra cases
According to a CU press release, the university has identified eight people with a “probable” case of swine flu.
The eight students live both on and off-campus. Their cases were identified based on test results for Influenza A. Only the state of Colorado can test for the H1N1 virus, or swine flu. That test can only be performed after a person has been hospitalized.
According to the press release, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention does not recommend that universities respond to H1N1 with quarantines of students or by canceling large-scale events. CU is not canceling any events or classes, but is tracking Influenza A cases.
The Department of Heath advises those with “influenza like illness”, described as a fever of 100.4 degrees Celsius accompanied by either cough or sore throat, to stay home for 24 hours after the fever has gone down without the aid of medication. Anyone with a possible case of flu can go to Wardenburg Health Center for treatment options.
People considered at increased risk of Swine flu include pregnant women, small children individuals with illnesses that cause difficulty breathing, people with suppressed immune systems and people with complicating medical conditions such as diabetes. These individuals are advised to contact their health care provider immediately. Those considered at increased risk of Swine Flu and those with worsening symptoms will be the only ones considered as recipients for antiviral medication.
Students with possible flu symptoms can call Wardenburg Health Center at 303-492-3435. Parents with H1N1 concerns are encouraged to call 303-492-4636.
For more guidelines and information visit the Colorado Department of Health H1N1 virus website.
The Wardenburg Health Center has posted recommendations on protecting against and treating influenza on its Web site at www.colorado.edu/healthcenter/infectiousdisease.html.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendations for institutions of higher education are posted at www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu/institutions/guidance/.
To read the full press release, click here.
Contact CU Independent Deadline Editor Sam Dieter at samuel.dieter@colorado.edu.
