June 19, 2009
To: Members of the Gettysburg College Community
From: Frederick Kinsella MSN, FNP-BC
Gettysburg College Health Services
Recently the World Health Organization (WHO) raised the level of pandemic alert to Phase 6 for H1 N1 (swine flu) virus. This indicates that a global pandemic is underway. Please note that WHO’s decision to raise its alert does not mean that there is a worsening of the severity of the virus. Instead, it reflects the fact that there are community level outbreaks in multiple parts of the world.
At this time we are not aware of any cases of H1N1 (swine flu) virus at Gettysburg College. The College continues to monitor the situation and to follow the guidelines set forth by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Pennsylvania State Health Department. The College’s preparedness is in line with the recommendations of WHO, CDC, and PA State Health Department.
We ask members of the College community to remain aware of the information regarding the H1N1 (viral) illness and take steps to avoid potential exposure and/or spread of the virus.
If you are an employee and have flu-like symptoms, please stay home from work, contact your family physician for treatment, and notify your supervisor. If you are a student working on campus for the summer you can contact the Gettysburg Family Practice at 334-2183, be seen at the WellSpan Ready Care Clinic 339-2875, or at the Gettysburg Hospital emergency room.
Symptoms of the flu include:
• An abrupt onset of symptoms (feeling OK one minute then feeling like you were hit by a truck)
• Fever can be up to 104 degrees or more (40 degrees Celsius)
• Sore throat
• Cough, one of the more prominent symptoms
• Body aches, chills
• Fatigue
• Less common, vomiting and diarrhea
• Symptoms last 7-10 days
To avoid getting ill with the flu or other illnesses:
• Wash your hands frequently with warm water and soap, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based gels or hand sanitizers work as well.
• Use respiratory etiquette and cover your mouth and nose with your elbow or shoulder when coughing or sneezing.
• Avoid touching your mouth, nose, or eyes to decrease exposing yourself to germs.
• Avoid close contact with sick people as best you can.
300 North Washington Street · Gettysburg, PA 17325