2000 may have swine flu in Washington State University
POSTED September 5, 2009 - 13:34 | POSTED BY Neharika Sabharwal
Last edited by Harpreet Bhagrath on September 5, 2009 - 14:59
The campus has had seven confirmed cases of H1N1 since the classes began little over a week ago, and there is a strong possibility of many more cases coming to light.
Health and Wellness officials confirmed a total of 158 students Thursday with H1N1 symptoms, including 42 persons on the phone, 49 patients who opted for self care and 23 patients who were seen by healthcare providers.
"We estimate that we have been in contact with about 2,000 students with influenza-like illness in the first ten days of our fall semester. At this time of year, we would typically only see a handful of patients with influenza-like illness," WSU Health and Wellness Services said in a latest posting on the university's A/H1N1 information blog.
Though the virus has been widespread, fortunately, no one has reported severe symptoms requiring medical intervention. Most have exhibited mild signs with a tendency to recover within three to five days. Only around a dozen patients complained of nausea and vomiting and needed hydration.
Precautionary measures advised
The university that houses 18,500 students is advising these students with flu symptoms to take medicines like Tylenol to reduce fever and rest.
In case the condition deteriorates, especially in people with underlying health problems, a doctor should be consulted immediately. Otherwise, students are encouraged to skip classes and remain quarantined at home.
"We're telling them to follow the advice of the experts: Go to bed, drink fluids, take acetaminophen and monitor your temperature," said spokesman James Tinney.
As a precautionary measure to reduce the spread of the influenza, Heath and Wellness is creating awareness amidst the WSU students through multiple communication channels.
Free self-care kits distributed
WSU has distributed 200 free flu kits among students with thermometer, painkillers, lozenges energy drinks, hand sanitizer and tissues, with 1,000 more in distribution process.
Although the health officials are dealing with a large outbreak of the flu on the WSU campus, no classes or university functions have been canceled, including the Cougar football game against conference rival Stanford.
Hand-washing stations will be set up at stadium, and health officials are recommending people to refrain from attending the game if ill with influenza.
