Important H1N1 (swine) flu information

Updated Oct. 16, 2009

As expected, we are seeing more cases of flu in the region and at NMC that is likely H1N1 (swine) flu. K-12 schools in the area are reporting higher absenteeism.

H1N1 tends to affect people under the age of 24. Other populations, such as pregnant women and people with underlying health issues such as asthma or diabetes also are at higher risk.


Here's what you can do to help stay healthy:

Know the symptoms of H1N1:

  • Fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and fatigue.

  • Symptoms tend to come on suddenly.

  • A significant number of people who have been infected with this virus also have reported diarrhea and vomiting.

  • Midwestern State University in Texas has made available a helpful online tool to help diagnose symptoms and actions you should take: http://healthcenter.mwsu.edu/flu-page/ (opens new window).

If you or someone you know has H1N1 symptoms:

  • Stay home for at least 24 hours after you no longer have a fever (100 degrees Fahrenheit) or signs of a fever (have chills, feel very warm, have a flushed appearance, or are sweating). This should be determined without the use of fever-reducing medications (such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen).
  • Stay away from others to help prevent them from getting sick too. Ask a roommate, friend or family member to check up on you and to bring you food and supplies if needed.
  • Consult a health-care provider if you experience severe symptoms or have difficulty breathing.

Protect yourself:

  • Practice good hand hygiene by washing your hands often with soap and water, especially after coughing or sneezing. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.
  • Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze.  If you don't have a tissue, cough or sneeze into your elbow or shoulder; not into your hands.
  • Consult your health-care provider if you experience severe symptoms or have difficulty breathing.

Remember the basics:

  • Eat well (avoid excess sugar)
  • Get plenty of rest
  • Exercise regularly
  • Avoid alcohol, drugs and tobacco, as these substances compromise your immune system, making you more susceptible to infection

Not only do these simple strategies help keep you healthy, they'll help you do better in school!

NMC's Health Services is available to answer questions. You can visit them in Biederman 106 on Main Campus from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday, or call (231) 995-1255.

You also can reach Renee Jacobson, Director of Health Services, via e-mail directly at jacobsr@nmc.edu

Information about after-hours care and nearby urgent care centers can be found online here »

NMC Health Services also will be providing opportunities for students, especially those in residence halls, to receive the H1N1 vaccination as soon as it is available later this fall.

We will continue to send you important updates via MBX e-mail, as well as post information at www.nmc.edu/students and www.nmc.edu/health-services

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