Hastings College Pandemic Influenza Plan (PDF File)
	Hastings College H1N1 Update (PDF File)
	Hastings College H1N1 Plan (PDF File)

September 9, 2009

To Members of the HC Community:
With the resumption of classes this week we continue to see cases of flu-like symptoms. In most cases these are characterized by a fever and respiratory problems (coughing, sneezing, etc.). We continue to screen students through the Health Center and ask that they seek a physician appointment locally if that seems indicated - most students are able to get an appointment the same day.

We have had several confirmed cases of Type A Influenza, assumed to be H1N1, on campus to date this year. In all cases individuals have been asked to self isolate, preferrably at home, until 24 hours after the fever has subsided without fever-reducing medication. For students this means ceasing class attendance when advised by the health center or their physician. We continue to do our best to provide updates and to work closely with local public health officials. One encouraging aspect of this scenario continues to be the relatively mild symptomology in these cases. However, individuals with underlying conditions are still at greater risk of complications from this as from any flu.

Please continue to practice good handwashing and disease prevention hygiene. We will continue to monitor and to provide updates as circumstances warrant.

Student Affairs Office

September 1, 2009

Dear HC Faculty, Staff, and Students:
We have at least one confirmed case of influenza within the HC community, assumed to be H1N1, and several cases of flu-like symptoms, all mild to date. It is important that we all continue to exercise good hygiene and disease spread prevention in our daily activities.

Those with flu-like symptoms (fever, body aches, coughing/sneezing) should be seen at the health center and should follow any directions for further diagnosis provided by the health center director.

Students who have been diagnosed with Influenza Type A should cease attendance at classes and extra-curricular activities and should self-isolate until 24 hours after a fever is gone without the aid of fever-reducing medication. Those with flu-like symptoms and/or a confirmed diagnosis should ideally return home during their recuperation period. We can provide isolated housing if necessary. Should cases develop with more severe symptoms we will require that those affected not be present on campus until 24 hours after symptoms are resolved.

We will continue to provide updates as indicated.

Student Affairs Office

August 12, 2009

Dear Members of the Hastings College Community:

Hastings College is continuing to monitor the activity of the H1N1 influenza virus. Nebraska had experienced 374 confirmed cases in 37 counties as of July 29, 2009. Hastings College remains in close communication with state and local public health agencies on the status of H1N1. As members of this community, here are some recommendations to help you stay healthy:

What You Can and Should Do:

• Follow the basic health and safety guidelines from the CDC website http://www.cdc.gov/h1n1flu. As you pack for school please remember to include items that would be helpful to treat the symptoms of seasonal flu or H1N1 flu. In your “flu kit” consider including—a thermometer, acetaminophen and ibuprofen to treat a fever, Gatorade, chicken soup/bouillon/broth, tea, crackers, salt for gargling, a surgical mask, tissues/Kleenex, hand sanitizer.
• If you are experiencing conditions such as a fever, cough and/or sore throat that concern you, please consult your health care provider. The Stone Health Center is staffed from 8am-12noon and 1-5pm Monday-Friday to assess student symptoms and assist with arranging for appointments with health care providers.
• Check Hastings College’s web site under H1N1 Updates at the ‘Current Students’ and ‘Parents and Counselors’ pages regarding any news that might affect classes, events, and the college as a whole.
• Pay attention to any official emails you receive from the Hastings College administration regarding this topic.

What Hastings College Has Done:

• We will offer seasonal influenza vaccine clinics beginning in September. And we are working with local public health officials to offer H1N1 vaccine clinics when the vaccine becomes available, probably after October 15.
• We have stockpiled and are distributing to all classrooms and offices hand sanitizers recommended for use on a regular basis; we have also stockpiled a supply of surgical masks for use in the event that this becomes indicated as a means to further reduce the spread of illness.
• We have established regular communication with local, state, and federal public health agencies to receive the latest updates in a timely manner.
• We have identified a plan for isolation of those with flu-like symptoms as per guidelines provided by the CDC and other public health organizations.

For more information contact:

• Elizabeth (Beth) Littrell Director of Campus Health Services elittrell@hastings.edu or 402-461-7372