Health Center

Submitted on behalf of David E. Newman, MD, Director Student Health Service

FLU TESTING and ANTIVIRAL MEDICATION

If you’re experiencing flu-like illness, you may be curious or worried about whether or not you have the new H1N1 (“swine”) influenza. If you visit us for a flu-like illness, you may not be tested for, or given antiviral medication for the virus.

H1N1 influenza continues to cause illness -- generally mild -- locally and throughout the world.

Its persistence is cause for concern, but not alarm. The latest public health information is available from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention:

CDC: 2009 H1N1 Flu Situation Update
CDC: H1N1 Flu Resources for Child Care Programs, Schools, Colleges, and Universities

The World Health Organization (WHO) last week raised the Pandemic Influenza Level from 4 to 5, recognizing that there is now sustained person-to-person transmission of the H1N1 swine flu in many areas.

Story submitted on behalf of Dr. David E. Newman, director of student health services.

I want to take this opportunity to assure the Ithaca College community that the staff of the Hammond Health Center is closely monitoring the situation regarding the swine flu outbreak, and will keep you updated as campus conditions warrant. It is important to note that there have been no reported cases affecting anyone within the campus or local communities.

The Hammond Health Center website (see below) provides links to important sources of information, including the World Health Organization, U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and New York State Department of Health. Please check these resources regularly for the most up-to-date news. The website also contains FAQs about swine flu, including prevention and treatment information.

Health Center: Swine Influenza