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Vigilance to avoid flu more crucial than ever in 2009

The annual flu season coincides with the start of the school year. This year is notable because of the threat of the H1N1 (swine flu) virus. CSU Health Services is working with local health officials and continues to monitor flu activity in our area. Check back here for flu season updates and information.

Local updates

• On Pandemic Flu, including absence reporting, from Columbus State University (Sept. 14, 2009) [PDF]
• Prevention tips, from West Georgia Health District (Aug. 21, 2009) [PDF]
• Initial health alert, from Student Health Service, Columbus State, (Aug. 20, 2009)

Know what to do about the flu

• Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue or your sleeve when you sneeze or cough. (Discard tissues; don't reuse them.)
• Wash your hands often with soap and water or use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer such as those located around campus. (Experts agree hand hygiene is the single most important method to stop the spread of infection.)
• Try to avoid close contact with anyone running a fever.
• If you are diagnosed with the flu, stay home for at least 24 hours after your fever has ended before returning to school or work.
• Get a flu vaccine shot when it becomes available.

Helpful links

• Flu.gov (U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services)
• H1N1 information (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
• What to Do If You Get Flu-Like Symptoms (CDC)
• If you're recovering, how long should you stay home? (CDC)
• State H1N1 News (Georgia Department of Community Health)