With the confirmation of several more cases in Cache Valley of the H1N1 (swine flu) virus and additional cases statewide, Dr. Jim Davis, director of Student Health and Wellness at Utah State University said professors and students should take special precautions to reduce the chance of spreading the virus.

“Because part of the recommended treatment for patients with symptoms of the influenza is social distancing, that is, staying away from others for the duration of symptoms, it is inevitable that it will affect the university and its teaching mission to some degree,” Davis said.

Davis said that should students acquire the H1N1 flu, they will be asked by their doctors to stay at home, take specific medications and take other intervention steps to help slow the spread of the illness.

If more cases continue to emerge in the days ahead, Davis said he will recommend that professors consider making more of their coursework accessible via Blackboard or other online venues. He would also recommend that professors relax attendance requirements, on a short-term-basis, or ease deadlines for homework for those with the illness.

“Doing what you can to help students succeed in spite of their illness, will ensure that this unfortunate illness pandemic has the least effect possible on our students and staff,” Davis said.

The virus is a new strain of influenza, to which humans currently have little or no developed immunity. It is spread predominately by coming into contact with upper respiratory droplets that contain the virus particles, such as from coughs, sneezes, or nasal fluid.

Davis said the best way to prevent contracting this particular strain of the flu virus is to wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after you sneeze or cough and after every contact with surfaces that may be contaminated.

Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also very effective. Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze. Throw the tissue in the trash after you use it.

“Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth,” he said. “Germs spread that way. Stay home and avoid contact with others if you become ill, so you don’t spread the illness.” 

Symptoms of the H1N1 are similar to the more common type A influenza: fever, chills, body aches, sore throat, runny nose and cough.

If you have these symptoms, contact the USU Student Health and Wellness Center or another health care facility. The USU health center can be reached at 435-797-1660. It is open Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.