Auburn monitoring swine influenza situation
Auburn University is aware of the current situation involving several human cases of swine influenza in the U.S., and has an initial response plan in place. The Auburn University Medical Clinic has been participating in routine influenza monitoring for several years, and reports weekly to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH). No cases of influenza (seasonal or other) have been confirmed at Auburn University since March 27, 2009. Auburn University will continue to operate as normal as we monitor this situation closely. If you think you have contracted the flu, please schedule an appointment with the AU Medical Clinic (844-4416) right away. This will help the university monitor the situation locally, identify potential cases quickly, and ensure that you get prompt treatment. Given the developing situation, the Auburn University Department of Public Safety and Security would also like to emphasize the importance of basic, everyday actions you should take to minimize your likelihood of contracting the flu or other viruses. Remember to practice the following basic infection control measures:
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash immediately after use. If you don't have a tissue, then cough or sneeze into your upper sleeve;
- Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 15-20 seconds, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective;
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way;
- Clean and sterilize contaminated surfaces; and
- Try to avoid close contact with sick people. Influenza is thought to spread mainly through coughing or sneezing of infected people.
We recommend checking the CDC Web site at http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/investigation.htm daily for up-to-date information on this rapidly evolving situation. For additional information on infection control and flu preparedness, visit the ADPH Web site at http://www.adph.org/.
Tags: disease control, health, swine flu