RADFORD -- The Radford University Student Health Center (SHC) continues to see students who present flu-like symptoms, most probably H1N1 influenza, according to Jeannie Seay, SHC director.

The Center for Disease Control (CDC) and the local health district department recommend that those with such flu-like symptoms “self-isolate,” or withdraw from all social activity until at least 24 hours after a normal body temperature has been achieved without fever-reducing medication. The CDC, according to Seay, says the recommended self-isolation period is seven days and that the vast majority of people with flu recover without complications.

Signs and symptoms of H1N1 flu are similar to those of seasonal flu: fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headaches, chills and fatigue. However, students, faculty or staff with chronic illness or medical conditions should consult with their medical provider if they get flu symptoms.

In the event of the onset of flu-like symptoms AND any of the following warning signs, the RU community is urged to seek immediate medical care:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Pain or pressure in the chest or abdomen
• Sudden dizziness
• Confusion
• Severe or persistent vomiting
• Flu-like illness improves but then returns with fever and worst cough

The RU community is urged to continue practicing preventive measures: cover coughs; wash hands often; stay away from people who are ill; avoid touching eyes, nose, and mouth; and in the event of those symptoms, self-isolation until fever-free for 24 hours without fever-reducing medication.

Radford University will be offering H1N1 vaccine clinics when the vaccine becomes available. Due to production issues, supplies are not yet available. Information about upcoming vaccine clinics will be available on the RU home page, on the Student Health Center Web site or by phone at the SHC at 831-5651.

The Radford University "Self-Isolation” protocol for its students is as follows:

1. Remain isolated and resting until 24 hours after fever has dropped without any fever-reducing medications.

2. If flu sufferer has a chronic medical condition such as asthma or diabetes and experience flu symptoms, call 540-831-5111 between 8:30 am - 6:00 pm or check the Student Health Center Web site for guidance. A 24/7 Nurseline is also available by calling 866-205-2164. RU faculty and staff are encouraged to seek help from your primary care physician.

3. Ask a spouse, roommate, friend to bring meals. Drink clear fluids (such as water, broth, or sports drinks) to keep from being dehydrated.

4. Do not go to class but immediately contact your instructors by phone or email that you may have the H1N1 flu. Most instructors will have already provided you with information about keeping up with assignments through Web CT and other on-line resources. The SHS can not provide excuse notes for students who miss class.

5. While self-isolated, continue to observe basic preventive measures:
a. Wash hands regularly.
b. Cough into sleeve (not hands) or tissue; discard tissue into plastic trash bags.
c. Use disinfectant wipes on all surfaces: toilets, sinks, door knobs, light switches, remotes, computer keyboard, etc.
d. Use disinfectant spray on items that cannot be wiped down, for example, clothing, bedding.
e. Wear a facemask to protect others who visit.

Additional flu prevention information can be found at the following sites:

General Flu Information
www.flu.gov
www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu
CDC has a telephone hotline at 1-800-CDC-INFO or 1-800-232-4636.

Radford University
The H1N1 channel on the Welcome page of the MyRU portal
RU Student Health Center
Office of Emergency Preparedness

Commonwealth of Virginia Flu Information
Virginia Department of Health
VDH has a telephone hotline at 877-ASK VDH3 or 877.275.8343.