Message from the Student Health Center Director Since H1N1 has been confirmed on our campus during the first week of the semester, the Student Health Center (SHC) has received calls from many parents. These calls are largely related to our decision to make the presumptive diagnosis of influenza-like illness (ILI), when possible, through telephone assessments. I want to assure both parents and students that this practice is recommended by the Center for Disease Control (CDC) and has been adopted by many other colleges and universities across the country. By calling first and letting the Center’s staff assess the symptoms, we hope to reduce exposure of the campus community to the virus. In our conversations with students about their symptoms, we ask about chronic medical conditions that would put them at increased risk for H1N1 complications. We give them guidelines regarding when to call back (fever lasting longer than two days, productive cough, breathing difficulty, chest pain or other new severe symptoms). We provide prompt appointments to those who need an evaluation. I am also involved in the University’s overall strategic plan for handling the H1N1 pandemic. As campus leaders, we have developed protocols concerning our students’ health and their academic concerns. This plan is outlined in the Chancellor’s letter. As noted on our web page about H1N1 influenza, the symptoms of this type of influenza are like those of the seasonal respiratory influenza – sudden fever, cough, body aches, sore throat and gastrointestinal symptoms. College campuses may be seeing higher infection rates due to the close contact of group living and lack of prior exposure to viruses similar to this strain. With the likelihood of H1N1 flu increasing, and the winter virus season approaching, Campus Dining Services and Residential Life are now offering “get well soon” meals. Students who have been asked to remain in their room for health reasons, can arrange for Campus Dining Services to bring meals to their room. These meals are considered part of the Mizzou dining plan, but each student must complete a form they can obtain from their hall staff or dining services. The University Physicians Medical Building Pharmacy and campus convenience stores have prepared flu self-care kits that contain a 2 oz. bottle of alcohol-based hand sanitizer, a 120 ml bottle of generic cough suppressant containing dextromethorphan, acetaminophen (325 mg, 100 count) and a digital thermometer for a modest cost. However, students shouldn’t leave their rooms to buy this or other items. We suggest that each student identify someone other than their roommate that they can contact by e-mail, text or phone who would be willing to bring these items to their room. SHC has been e-mailing verifications to students who are diagnosed with ILI so they can forward it to their instructors. This note will help students comply with both the Chancellor’s and Provost’s request of not attending class while contagious. However, even before receiving this e-mail, students should contact their instructors to inform them and request course accommodations. We want students and parents to know that as the influenza season continues, students should not be penalized for missing class if they are sick. The Provost has asked the faculty to be flexible with attendance policies and to consider alternatives for assignments and deadlines. Students may return to class 24 hours after their fever resolves without medication. Since influenza is spread by droplet transmission - meaning the virus enters your system when your hands bring the virus containing droplets to your mouth, nose or eyes. Simple precautions such as frequent hand washing and use of hand sanitizers can greatly reduce the spread of the virus. Other precautions are listed on our influenza information page. SHC is being pro-active in taking care of Mizzou students during this flu season. If you have questions, please monitor MUAlert.com, consult our Web site or contact me at (573) 884-9388. It’s our goal to maintain a safe and healthy campus for MU students and to provide health care to those who need it. Susan Even, MD |