6/29/09 Update
Although the World Health Organization (WHO) has declared an official pandemic, this will not change the commitment of WSU to monitor the current outbreak of the A (H1N1) flu and its potential affects on the university. WSU will continue to implement its current plans and preparations as well as to review and update those plans and preparations to adapt to changes and new information arising out of the A (H1N1) flu pandemic as it becomes available. The Washington State Department of Health has stopped reporting the number of cases of the A (H1N1) flu in the state, but the numbers of those getting the A (H1N1) flu is still increasing, slowly. The State Department of Health reports 86 people have been hospitalized and three persons have died from complications associated with the A (H1N1) flu. There has been one confirmed case at the WSU Pullman campus but no other confirmed cases at any of the other WSU campuses or facilities, statewide. Please note the A (H1N1) flu , although of swine origins is not caused by eating pork or pork products that have been properly cooked. All of the cases of A (H1N1) in the United States have been transmitted by human to human contact.
PRECAUTIONARY MEASURES
The university community is advised to be aware of the symptoms of the flu. This is especially important to those who have been in close contact with people who have shown symptoms of the flu in the last seven days. The symptoms of A (H1N1) in people are similar to the symptoms of regular seasonal flu and include fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue. Some people have reported diarrhea and vomiting associated with the A (H1N1) flu. Like seasonal flu, A (H1N1) flu may cause a worsening of underlying chronic medical conditions and if you have any of these symptoms you should contact your healthcare provider.
The university community is reminded of these tips to prevent disease transmission:
• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth. Germs spread that way.
Try to avoid close contact with sick people:
• Influenza is thought to spread mainly person-to-person through coughing or sneezing of infected people.
• If you get sick, CDC recommends that you stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them.
CLICK FOR A (H1N1) FLU FACTS-FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION AND UPDATES (Click on these links!)
The Whitman County Health Department
Or call the Whitman County Health Department at 509-397-6280.
Center for Disease Control
WSU Health and Wellness Flu Information
More WSU Flu Information and Links
State Department Travel Warnings
Washington State Department of Health
