The American College Health Association reports that ninety-one percent of the 267 colleges and universities participating in their H1N1 survey reported new cases in the last week. The nationwide attack rate was nearly 25 cases per 10,000 students. Consistent with this trend, Georgetown University is experiencing an increase in students reporting influenza like illness on campus and expects to see a continued increase in those experiencing flu-like symptoms on campus throughout the fall. A campus health advisory is in effect, putting in place measures aimed at reducing the spread of the virus, providing support for those who may become ill, and guiding the ongoing work of our emergency preparedness team.

In the past week approximately 100 students have sought medical advice or evaluation for influenza-like symptoms. This represents a cumulative total of approximately 250 students who have reported flu-like symptoms since the semester began. Consistent with most medical professionals, we are not testing individuals for H1N1 specifically but are monitoring these cases carefully, providing support and resources to our community, consulting with federal and local public health officials, and encouraging individuals to take precautions to stay healthy. The vast majority of students have experienced relatively mild symptoms, were ill for a limited period of time, and have recovered.

Symptoms of H1N1 influenza include fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills, fatigue and in some cases gastrointestinal upset. The Student Health Center’s H1N1 advice line at (202) 784-H1N1 is available to students, faculty and staff who may have questions. Students may seek medical evaluation at the Student Health Center. Faculty and staff should consult their personal physicians.

Students, faculty and staff who have the flu or are exhibiting flu-like symptoms, are asked to stay home until fever-free for at least 24 hours without the use of fever reducing medication. Students who are ill must notify their academic dean’s office and faculty members as soon as possible.

It is important to remember that the most important measures to take to avoid the flu include:

• washing hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze; using alcohol-based hand sanitizer is an appropriate alternative;

• covering your cough or sneeze with a tissue, and immediately throwing the tissue away in a proper receptacle. As an alternative, cough or sneeze into the inside of the elbow;

• getting vaccinated for the seasonal flu. Seasonal flu shots will be available to students, faculty and staff on campus in the coming weeks.

The university will continue the proactive steps we’ve put in place to limit exposure to both the H1N1 and seasonal flu viruses. We are maintaining routine campus operations and will notify the community if the situation warrants changes.