R.J. Yancey
Staff Writer
rjyancey@valdosta.edu
The H1N1 swine flu influenza virus continues to spread worldwide with at least two cases occurring at VSU this June. Although both students made a healthy recovery, Dr. Edwin Hiatt, Director of the VSU Health Center, has sent out an open letter/e-mail to students, faculty and staff on preventative measures that can be taken against the virus.
“We are recommending that students, faculty and staff who have flu symptoms should self-isolate in their residence hall rooms or at home for at least 24 hours after their fever is gone, with the exception of getting medical care or other necessities,” Hiatt said.
If experiencing flu symptoms, students are urged to cover their mouths when coughing or sneezing to prevent the illness from spreading. Symptoms of the H1N1 flu virus are similar to regular flu symptoms: fever, sore throat, runny nose, cough, headache, nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.
“Until I got the e-mail that was sent out I never really thought about swine flu, but now my roommate is sick and I want her to go to the doctor,” Melissa Insardi, a VSU freshman, said.
If experiencing flu symptoms, students are urged to contact the Student Health Center at 229-219-3200 to speak with a health professional about getting treatment. If not experiencing symptoms, students can minimize transmission of the virus by avoiding close contact with those who are sick and washing hands frequently with water and soap or an alcohol based hand gel.
“I’m a hand sanitizer freak,” Insardi said. “I have a bottle in my bag and also one at home. It’s better to do something than do nothing at all.”

In addition to the H1N1 strain, seasonal flu will also be circulating this fall and winter.         There are two separate immunizations which must be received in order to prevent both strains.
The seasonal flu vaccine will be available earlier than the H1N1 vaccine, but both should be readily available by at least mid-October.
“Immunization is considered to be the single best way to protect yourself and your loved ones against the flu,” Hiatt said.
To view the complete letter from Dr. Hiatt about H1N1 prevention, access the VSU Web site and select the Health Services department.
Also provided are additional resources, including a link to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website.