H1N1 Flu Update (Swine Flu)
Although California has reported many cases of H1N1 influenza, illness from this infection continues to be relatively mild. Persons at risk for more severe illness include those who have asthma, are obese, or have other chronic health problems. These persons may benefit from treatment from anti-viral medication, although medication is not routinely recommended for those without risk factors.
In order to prevent infection with H1N1, it is very important that you practice good infection control strategies, such as frequent handwashing, covering your cough, and staying home when ill. As we prepare for the fall flu season, we will continue to work closely with the SD County Public Health Department and the CDC. Please visit the links at the bottom of this page for the most current information from CDC, SD County Public Health.
The following websites provide valuable information on prevention, self care, treatment and the status of local and national efforts to address the disease:
- 2009 H1N1 Flu Information for the UCSD Community
- UCSD Pandemic/Epidemic Response Initiative
- Pandemic/Epidemic Response Committee
- Information for ECEC and MCDC Parents: 2009 H1N1 Flu
- Video update by Dr. Randy Taplitz, Clinical Director of Infectious Diseases, UCSD Medical Center.
- H1N1 Flu (Centers for Disease Control & Prevention)
- SD County (County Health Information)
- Taking Care of a Sick Person in Your Home (Centers for Disease Control & Prevention)
- TritonLink has updated information for the UCSD community
- World Health Organization link
- Managing Anxiety about H1N1 Flu American Psychological Association
How We Can Help
If you have symptoms of flu and have concerns regarding management issues, please call the SHS Advice Nurse at (858) 534-3799 for consultation rather than presenting in-person to SHS.
Do not call to schedule an appointment before calling the SHS Advice Nurse for consultation. The SHS Advice Nurse is a free service available to UCSD students during our regular hours of operation.
After hours, you can access CareNet Nurse Advice Line by calling the SHS main phone number (858) 534-3300 and selecting the appropriate option.
In general, if you are not experiencing high fever, difficulty breathing, chest pain, persistent vomiting, severe diarrhea or instability related to dehydration, the advice nurse tell you how you can manage symptoms with home care.
General Disease Prevention Recommendations
As a general precaution to help prevent illness, the following disease prevention practices are advised:
- Cover your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough and throw away tissues in the trash after use
- Wash hands often with soap and water especially after a sneeze or cough. Use alcohol-based hand wipes as available.
- Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth
- Avoid contact with others you know to be ill
- If you get sick with flu like symptoms stay home from work or school and avoid contact with others
