Due to the increase in swine flu cases, (2009 H1N1 Flu) we recommend you remain mindful of the symptoms and precautions. Infected individuals report flu-like symptoms of fever, aches and pains, sore throats, coughing and trouble breathing. Some people have also reported diarrhea and vomiting.

Persons with a fever and respiratory illness should stay home from work or school to avoid spreading infections to others in the community. Frequent hand-washing can lessen the spread of respiratory illness.  If you experience flu-like symptoms, please visit the health care provider of your choice, Albemarle Hospital or First Choice Urgent Care.

For more information about the swine flu and the current outbreak, please visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website:  http://www.cdc.gov/swineflu/.

Following are some practices to help decrease the spread of germs. These practices are especially important during flu outbreaks:

Avoid close contact.

Avoid close contact with people who are sick. When you are sick, keep your distance from others to protect them from getting sick too.

Stay home when you are sick.

If possible, stay home from work, school and errands when you are sick. You will help prevent others from catching your illness.

Cover your mouth and nose.

Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. It may prevent those around you from getting sick. Use your upper sleeve if you don't have a tissue - not your hands. Put the tissue in the trash after you use it.

Clean your hands.

Washing your hands often with soap and water will help protect you from germs. Alcohol-based hand cleaners are also effective.  

Avoid touching your eyes, nose or mouth.

Germs are often spread when a person touches something that is contaminated with germs and then touches his or her eyes, nose or mouth.

 Distributed by the ECSU Office of University Relations & Marketing

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