Think you may have the flu?

Influenza H1N1 (Swine Flu) – Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What should I do if I think I have the flu?
A: Stay home and drink plenty of fluids. For a temperature greater than 100 degrees take an over-the-counter fever medication, such as Tylenol or Advil, as directed on the bottle. If you think you might need medical attention or have an underlying health condition, call your health care provider. It is important that you call first so that you don’t expose others. You will be given instructions on what to do. Most people with the flu can take care of themselves at home. As always, If you are having an emergency situation, such as difficulty breathing, you should call 911 immediately.

Q: How do I know if I have H1N1 or seasonal flu?
A: Symptoms of H1N1 and the regular seasonal flu are similar; fever, sore throat, and body aches. Because testing is not currently recommended for most people, you may not end up knowing which type of the flu you have. If you demonstrate flu-like symptoms in the early fall, health care providers will assume that the flu is H1N1. If symptoms occur later in the year, seasonal flu will be assumed, as seasonal flu usually occurs from late fall through spring.

Q: What can I do to prevent getting H1N1 and the seasonal flu?
A: Both illnesses are transmitted through respiratory secretions (coughing or sneezing). The best way to prevent the flu is to get vaccinated each year. You can also reduce your risk of infection by washing your hands often. Use soap and warm water, and scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds. Alcohol-based hand sanitizers are also effective. Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or sleeve when you cough or sneeze and avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth. You can boost your immune system by getting enough sleep, eating healthfully, exercising and managing stress. Staying home from work, class and other activities helps prevent spreading your illness to others.

Q: Will I be able to get Novel Influenza A (H1N1) vaccine?
A: The government is controlling distribution of the vaccine. Should we receive an allotment, students, faculty and staff will be notified of its availability.

Q: Will Antioch University Midwest cancel classes?
A: The current CDC guidelines for universities expressly tell universities to stay open. Things may change in the event of a major outbreak, but those decisions will be made together with the health department. Stay ahead of your studies and assignments. Then, if you fall ill, you won’t fall as far behind.

Q: Will I be excused from class if I am sick?
A: Please refer to your particular academic program’s absentee policy. This information is found in your student handbook.

Q: Who is at risk for H1N1?
A: Although anyone can get H1N1, it seems that young people are more easily infected. Pregnant women, those with young children, or those who provide care to young children are considered to be at greatest risk, as are individuals with chronic medical conditions such as asthma, heart disease or diabetes.

Q: Should I get the regular flu shot?
A: Yes. Getting the regular flu shot will help your provider know which flu you have should you get sick. It will also minimize your chance of having two types of flu at once. You will also help stop the spread of the regular flu in our community.

Additional Resources

www.gcchd.org
www.odh.ohio.gov
www.cdc.gov
www.flu.gov
1-800-CDC-INFO (232-4636)