H1N1 Update

Monday, November 2, 2009

Dear Members of the Campus Community:

We have received the doses of H1N1 influenza vaccine that I ordered for our students. Following CDC guidelines for situations in which vaccine supplies are limited, these doses will be targeted to STUDENTS. Other members of the campus community should be able to get the vaccine from their physicians or at one of the community mass clinics planned for later this year.

On Thursday, November 5, Jameson HealthSystems will be offering to the campus community seasonal flu shots here at the Health Center from 11 am to 5 pm. The cost of the seasonal flu shot is $24.99 and is payable by cash or check.

Also on Thursday, November 5, from 11 am to 5 pm, Jameson HealhSystems will be offering to students only the H1N1 vaccine. There is no charge for the H1N1 vaccine. Students may get the seasonal flu vaccine and the H1N1 vaccine at the same time. See http://www.cdc.gov/H1N1flu/vaccination/top10_faq.htm item #4.

The Health Center staff are strong proponents of influenza vaccination as the best way to reduce your own risk of illness and protect those who are not able to get vaccinated.

H1N1 flu vaccine

The CDC gives high priority to vaccinating young adults against H1N1. As the primary care provider for Westminster students, the Health Center is focusing on vaccinating students.

H1N1 Influenza Update

Your vigilance and thoughtfulness are making a difference in reducing the spread of the virus on our campus. The number of students with H1N1 has dropped dramatically since the early weeks of the semester. Levels of illness in the our surrounding communities are increasing.

Flu is unpredictable, but we anticipate one or more further H1N1 spikes this academic year. We also expect to see the season flu during the typical 'flu season' of January through April.

We continue to urge all members of the Westminster Community to:
*Sneeze or cough into a tissue or your sleeve (not your hand).
*Keep your hands away form your face ( and don't touch your mouth, nose and eyes).
*Wash your hands with soap often (an alcohol-based hand sanitizer works, too).
*Keep frequently used surfaces clean ( like knobs, countertops and desks).
*And stay home from work or school if you do get sick.

Judith Duda, RN-C
Director, Student Health Center