Swine Flu in the United States: Is NGU prepared?
Posted by The Skyliner on September 2nd, 2009Jessicah Peters
Staff Writer
As college students live together in close quarters, share desks and other things, the flu and other illnesses can be spread easily. A cold for a student may not seem serious enough to miss a class or lecture, but they rarely consider that they may be spreading the illness to their peers. The Swine Flu is a serious illness that has even lead to some deaths. It supposedly started in Middle East and Asia-Pacific regions, but many patients would confirm they received the Flu from Mexico, in which there were more than 150 deaths.
This virus is resistant to the antiviral medications amantadine (Symmetrel) and rimantadine. Investigations of these cases suggest that ongoing human-to-human swine influenza A (H1N1) virus is occurring.
Many have made jokes concerning the flu, and say you will turn into a pig and have hog like appearances. While the jokes may seem funny at the moment, this virus is nothing to take lightly.
Some of the symptoms are: fever, cough, sore throat and mild respiratory illnesses. More serious symptoms are vomiting, diarrhea, myalgia, headache, chills, fatigue and dyspnea. Pneumonia has also been connected to the Swine Flu.
The history of the Swine Flu was first recorded in 1976 at Fort Dix. However, it was not the same outbreak as this year. Doctors say the best way to prevent receiving the swine flu is the same as any other influenza which is through a vaccination.
Another way to prevent the flu is to avoid contact with it. Washing your hands, not touching your face, and avoiding anyone that has the Swine Flu within 48 hours is recommended. Some doctors even suggest using Tamiflu or Relenza to help prevent any symptoms. Most treatments include taking Tamiflu or Relenza for five days.
Swine Flu is diagnosed by the patients’ association with people known to have the disease. Usually a quick test, a swab sample of the nasal passage, is retrieved to see if the patient has influenza A or B. Doctors say if it is tested B it is most likely not the Swine Flu.
The best advice for preventing the Swine Flu from infecting us here at NGU is to be smart. Do the appropriate actions such as washing your hands and covering your mouth when sneezing and coughing.
If you are having flu-like symptoms, go to the local hospital or the clinic here on campus.
Dr. John Strange said students can prevent the Swine Flu by frequent hand washing or use of a hand sanitizer is the most important preventative measure that students can do.
“Everyone should practice good hygiene, such as coughing or sneezing into their sleeve, for example, and not on their hands. Getting plenty of rest and eating properly can also help your immune system stay healthy,” Strange said.
If you think you have the flu, you should be seen in the clinic so that they can determine whether you indeed have the flu, and once a determination has been made, take appropriate measures to treat the flu. If an individual comes to be seen within 48 hours of the onset of their symptoms, antivirals such as Tamiflu can be helpful.
“As always, rest and drinking plenty of fluids is important,” Strange said.
The school does have a protocol in place when a student is diagnosed. Students are being sent home, if possible, so the virus does not spread. Strange also said that a vaccine is being made; however, it is currently undergoing testing and won’t be available until mid-fall.
Students received an email by Billy Watson giving advice in preventing the flu. First, wash your hands frequently or use hand sanitizer; secondly, do not share food and drink with anyone; and also remember to cover your mouth when you sneeze or cough.
Please make sure to take time to read thoroughly preventions and advice sent in the email. We are trying our best to keep our school safe and healthy for all who attend.
Tags: Fall 2009, Vol. 109 - Issue 1